X-Ray

Patient Preparation

Our imaging and clerical staff have been chosen for their combination of outstanding technical skills and their ability to make patients relaxed and comfortable. We have provided details below that will help make your visit as easy as possible. Please follow the appropriate information and contact us if you have any questions.

Parking

Ample parking available

Arrival Time

Please arrive at least 10 – 15 minutes prior to your appointment for all scans. This will help us in making sure we are able to take all your details prior to your appointment along with filling out any consent forms we need and certain changing requirements we may have for you examination.

What to Bring

▪ Referral note
▪ Government approved identity card
▪ Previous images / medical records

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than those of visible light, typically in the range of 0.01 to 10 nanometers (nm). They were discovered by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895 and were named “X” rays because their nature was initially unknown. X-rays have a wide range of applications in science, medicine, and industry due to their ability to penetrate matter and interact with it in ways that are useful for various purposes.

Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or think you may possibly be pregnant, please check with your doctor before scheduling the exam. Other examinations can be discussed with you and your referring doctor.

Eat and Drink

There is no specific preparation required. There is no need to fast, and you can take all medication as usual.

Positioning

The scan is performed on an open bed, so you won’t need to worry about confined spaces.

Clothing

It is helpful to wear loose fitting clothing without metal buckles, fasteners, or zips.

DURING AN X-RAY
During an X-ray, a patient will be positioned in front of an X-ray machine, and a technician will take pictures of the body part being examined. You will be asked to change into a gown and to remove any jewellery. Depending on the area of examination, you may be asked to sit, stand or lay down. During the scan, you must remain completely still, as any movement may result in a blurred image.
The X-ray machine will emit a very small and controlled amount of radiation. This will pass through the patient’s body and onto a film or digital sensor located on the other side. The bones in the body will absorb more of the radiation than the soft tissues, resulting in a white or light grey image of the bones and a darker image of the surrounding tissue.
The entire process typically takes only a few minutes, and the patient will not feel anything during the procedure.

AFTER AN X-RAY
Once the X-ray has taken place, the radiographer will electronically process each X-ray produced and review it for quality. This is a quick process, and occasionally there may be the need for additional images. There is no need for concern if this is the case, it is to obtain a better view of the region, not because there is a problem.

X-RAY PATIENT SAFETY
The type of radiation used in X-rays is called ionising radiation. Medical research has been unable to establish conclusively that there are significant effects for patients exposed to ionising radiation at the doses used in diagnostic X-ray imaging.
Radiographers are trained to use the smallest possible amount of X- rays required to produce a satisfactory image. The benefits of an X- ray generally out outweigh the risks involved.