What does the term "radiopaque" refer to in radiology?

The term "radiopaque" refers to materials that do not allow X-rays to pass through, resulting in their appearing white or light on the radiographic images. This property is essential in radiology for differentiating between various tissues and structures within the body. Radiopaque substances, such as certain metals or contrast agents used in imaging procedures, absorb X-rays more effectively than surrounding tissues, which helps create clear contrasts that can be interpreted by radiologists.

In contrast, radiolucent materials allow X-rays to pass through more easily, appearing darker on the images. This distinction is crucial in medical diagnostics, as understanding which areas of an image are radiopaque versus radiolucent assists healthcare professionals in identifying anomalies and evaluating medical concerns.