Plain radiography was the only imaging modality available during the first 50 years of radiology.

The following are radiographic changes characteristic of spinal tuberculosis on plain radiography:

Plain radiography, with its superior spatial resolution, remains a key investigation in the initial diagnosis of a primary bone tumour.

Plain radiography, sonography and MRI can aid in the diagnosis.

KUB is plain radiography of the urinary system, e.g. to identify kidney stones.

Plain radiography and bone densitometry can be used to assess bone involvement and the presence of osteoporosis.

Plain radiography is utilized on a limited basis and ultrasound is used in limited circumstances, particularly in the pediatric population.

Plain radiography shows the radial head fracture, with dorsal subluxation of the ulna often seen on lateral view of the pronated wrist.

Plain radiography may demonstrate signs of duodenal obstruction with dilatation of the proximal duodenum and stomach but it is often non-specific.

The limitations apply to all imaging modalities, including plain radiography, radionuclide studies, CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Segond and reverse Segond fractures are characterized by a small avulsion, or "chip", fragment of characteristic size that is best seen on plain radiography in the anterior-posterior plane.

CT or high-resolution CT (HRCT) are more sensitive than plain radiography at detecting pulmonary fibrosis (as well as any underlying pleural changes).

Plain radiography of the skull may be sufficient for diagnosing a single suture craniosynostosis and should therefore be performed, but the diagnostic value is outweighed by that of the CT-scan.