What type of radiation is primarily emitted from a fluoroscopy machine?

Fluoroscopy machines primarily emit X-rays, which are a form of electromagnetic radiation. This type of radiation is essential in fluoroscopy because it allows real-time imaging of the internal structures of the body while a patient is undergoing a procedure. The X-rays emitted can penetrate the body tissues, creating images on a fluorescent screen or digital detector that are then displayed for interpretation.

X-rays are advantageous in medical imaging because they provide the necessary contrast between different types of tissue, such as bone and soft tissue. This capability to visualize moving internal organs, assess blood flow, and guide interventional procedures makes X-ray technology incredibly valuable in clinical settings.

In contrast, alpha particles and beta particles are forms of particulate radiation typically associated with radioactive decay and not used in fluoroscopy. Alpha particles, which are heavier and positively charged, cannot penetrate human tissue. Beta particles, being lighter, have more penetration ability than alpha particles but are still not used in the context of fluoroscopic imaging. Gamma radiation, while also penetrating and used in some imaging modalities such as PET scans, is not the primary radiation type emitted by fluoroscopy machines. The distinctive feature of fluoroscopy is its reliance on X-ray technology to provide dynamic imaging.