X-ray: A guide to your scan

What is an X-ray?

An X-ray is a test which is used to produce images of your tissues, bones and organs.

Who will I see?

A small team of radiography staff will look after you during your visit and one of the radiographers will carry out the X-ray.

Is it safe?

Exposure to X-ray radiation could slightly increase your chances of developing cancer many years later, although standard X-ray procedures use very low doses of radiation so this risk is estimated to very small. A chest X-ray, for example, is equivalent to about 3days of exposure to natural background radiation from the environment. The doctor who has referred you for this procedure has decided that the benefits of the X-ray outweigh the risks.

If you are or think that you may be pregnant, you should tell us before your X-ray. Please let us know if you have had a similar X-ray within the last 6 months.

Do I need an injection?

No you will not need an injection.

Before the X-ray

• We do ask that the clothing you wear to your appointment be free from metal buttons and metal zips, if possible. We also ask that you avoid wearing long flowing articles of clothing and that suitable footwear is worn to ensure your safety when attending for your appointment. Please note that your examination maybe conducted on one of our mobile units which can involve access via metal steps and/or a patient lift.
• You should let us know about any special needs you have (for example if you need wheelchair access, you are hard of hearing, or you have poor eyesight).

What happens during my appointment?

• When you arrive you should go to the reception desk (please bring your appointment letter which may have details of who to ask for).
• The radiographer or another member of staff will explain the procedure to you.
• We may ask you to put on a gown.
• Please do not bring any valuable possessions, such as jewellery or watches to your appointment. You may be asked to remove all jewellery during your appointment and these items will remain your responsibility.
• We will give you the chance to ask any questions.
• We may ask you to stand against an X-ray frame or to lie on an X-ray bed. This will depend on the part of your body that is being X-rayed.
• The radiographer will be able to see and hear you at all times.
• We will ask you to stay very still and we may ask you to take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds.

Will it be uncomfortable?

You will not feel any pain and, apart from having to stay still for a short while, you will not experience any discomfort.

After the scan

• You can eat and drink normally after the scan.
• You can drive home afterwards and return to work if you need to.

How long will it take?

The X-ray will only last a few minutes, though the radiographer may need to take more X-rays in different positions. Your appointment should take no longer than an hour.

Are there any side effects?

There are no known side effects from having an X-ray.

When will I get the results?

• After your X-ray is complete, your images will be checked by a radiologist who will send a report to your doctor or consultant. At the time of your appointment you will be told how long this should take.
• If a follow up appointment is not already arranged, you will need to contact your doctor or consultant to make an appointment to get your results.

Can I bring a relative or friend with me?

• Yes, but they will only be allowed to go into the examination room in special circumstances (for safety reasons).
• Children are not allowed into the room while you are having the X-ray and our staff are unable to care for children during an examination. Please make alternative arrangements for any childcare needs.

Contacting us

It is very important to us that you have been given all the necessary information so that your X-ray is carried out successfully. Please contact us on the number given in your appointment letter if you have any questions, concerns or suggestions.

If you require this information in a different format please let us know via customercare@alliance.co.uk