Formerly, a light-sensitive film was exposed to X-rays and then developed. The digital X-ray is the modern development of the conventional X-ray, using a digital-detector system instead of traditional photographic film.
During the examination, X-rays are directed specifically at the particular body region in question. Other body parts are not directly exposed to radiation. The X-rays penetrate the examined body and are attenuated differently by the various internal structures, such as organs and bones.