Description

Images of radiopaque tissues obtained by exposure of special photographic plates to ionizing radiation.

Uses in Ophthalmology

Plain films are of limited use in ophthalmology. They may be used to identify or exclude radiopaque intraorbital or intraocular foreign bodies. However, computed tomography (CT) is the study of choice to evaluate for foreign bodies, as CT has greater contrast sensitivity over conventional radiography. Plain films remain a valid screening modality before magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) if an occult metallic foreign body is suspected. Plain films should never be used in the setting of trauma or for the diagnosis of orbital fractures, as this needlessly exposes the patient to radiation without providing enough detail of orbital bone and soft tissue.