X-ray
An X-ray is a quick, painless test used to help diagnose many health conditions. In most cases a referral from your GP, consultant or midwife will be needed. X-rays project a form of radiation through part of your body to produce a black and white image of your bones, joints and soft tissues.
The images can be used to check for fractures or infections, inflammation and underlying signs of disease. As part of our x-ray service we carry out x-rays on many areas of the body including:
- Arms
- Legs
- Feet
- Skull
- Back or spine
- Chest
- Abdominal
- Pelvis
- Hands
Your x-ray
An x-ray usually takes only a few minutes depending on what part of your body is being examined. Most of this time is spent getting into position and preparing the equipment. Your radiographer will ask you to lie down, sit or stand so that the part of your body being x-rayed is against the x-ray plate. The part of your body being examined is exposed to radiation for a fraction of a second as the x-rays hit the plate.
If you are, or there is a possibility you may be pregnant, please tell the radiographer before your x-ray.
Your results
All x-rays are reported by a Consultant Radiologist, within 48 hours. Results will usually be sent to the doctor or consultant who referred you for the x-ray.
