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An X-ray is a fast, painless procedure commonly used to capture images of bones and teeth for diagnosis and to guide treatment. X-rays are typically conducted in hospital departments or dentist surgeries by trained specialists to look at bones, teeth, and internal organs.
X-rays are a form of radiation that passes through the body. They are invisible and painless. A detector picks up the X-rays after they’ve passed through the body and turns them into an image.
Bones absorb more radiation than soft tissue, and will appear white in the image. Softer tissues, such as the lungs and heart, will show up darker. The radiographer captures and assesses the images.
X-rays are a quick and effective method for viewing bones and certain body tissues. They are commonly utilised for:
X-rays provide a fast and efficient way to gain insights into a variety of health concerns, particularly in emergency and orthopaedic settings.
Before an X-ray, you can eat, drink, and take any usual medications unless told otherwise by the doctor. If you have a contrast agent, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to prepare.
If you're pregnant, tell the hospital. X-rays are usually avoided during pregnancy unless necessary.
Wear loose and comfortable clothing, and avoid jewellery and zippers, as you may need to remove them before your X-ray.
During the X-ray, you will lie on a table, stand against a flat surface, or position the required body part on the table. You may be given a contrast agent: this is a substance that acts like a temporary dye, helping reveal more internal details in your body. The radiographer will position the part of your body to be examined and carefully aim the X-ray machine. The radiographer will leave the room to operate the machine.
You will need to stay still for a clear image. The radiographer will take X-rays from different angles to get a full picture.
X-rays expose the body to minimal radiation and are very low risk. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks and complications.
You may have a reaction to the contrast agent the radiographer gives you. This could result in blurry vision, mild allergic reactions, and changes in stool colour.
Usually, there are no after effects, and you can go home straight away after your X-ray. A radiologist will look at the X-ray images and discuss the results with you on the same day or at a later date. Sometimes, it takes a few days to receive a full report.
You can receive this treatment at any one of the locations below.
After receiving your referral, we will contact you to arrange a suitable time and date for your scan.
Following the scheduling of your appointment, you will need to attend one of our clinics in Leeds or Sheffield for your scan.
After you have attended your appointment, a consultant will prepare a written report. This will be sent to your referring clinician 48 hours after your appointment.
If you require a copy of your report/images after discussion with your referrer, please contact us, and we can arrange this.
We are driven by the belief that quality brings its rewards. We see outstanding quality within our services, we have strong outcomes for our patient care and our ratings on patient satisfaction are high. Our average for the last three months is 98% of individuals would highly likely or likely recommend us as a provider of choice for their friends and family
Whilst most healthcare organisations require a GP referral for a specialist service, here at LivingCare we can produce that GP referral for you through our team of Private GPs
With one phone call, one email or one message we can get you booked in for a consultation.
We do not want you waiting around feeling ill. We will let you choose when you come and see us, rather than telling you when we are free.
Our specialist consultants can provide a full pathway including some of the best technology in the world. We can provide you with support from first symptoms through to investigation and treatment.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps...
Give us a call or use our contact form below to get in touch with us.
Within 24 hours by somebody from our team.
We'll offer you an appointment date and time to suit you.
Attend your appointment on your chosen date and time to see our highly qualified consultant.
We'll refer you for any further tests, treatments or reviews you might need, and take care of the booking processes following your appointment.
We understand that immediate access to healthcare is sometimes essential. With our self-pay service, there are no waiting lists. Within 24 hours, you will be offered a consultation date to see a medical professional that is convenient for you. Our expert team can then give you an assessment and treatment within 1 week of your consultation.
Your consultation and any tests, scans or investigations will be charged separately, however all of these costs will be quoted to you before anything commences and you are under no obligation to continue your treatment with us unless you are happy to do so.
To find a full overview of our services and prices, please visit our Prices page.
If you are paying for your procedure or treatment with medical insurance, you will need to liaise closely with the insurance provider throughout the process.
Before attending your first appointment, you should contact your insurance company to check that that your condition is covered for all stages of treatments.
You will need to visit your GP and ask them to refer you to The LivingCare Group at Thorpe Park Clinic for a private procedure. Your GP will write a letter of referral and then either you or your GP can contact us to arrange your first appointment.
Yes, the radiation exposure during an X-ray is minimal and comparable to the amount of radiation you're exposed to naturally. The benefits of detecting a medical issue often outweigh the small risks.
You should tell the hospital if you're pregnant. X-rays are generally avoided during pregnancy unless necessary.
For most standard X-rays, you don’t need to make special preparations. However, if your X-ray involves a contrast agent, you may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications for a few hours.
An X-ray only takes a few minutes. However, it may be longer if multiple images are needed and for contrast X-rays. You may also need to wait for the results after the appointment if you’re getting them on the same day.
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“ staff were so lovely straight from when you enter too when you are leaving! they make the scan easier and not difficult, and make u feel a lot better about the scan, especially if it’s your first time time like it was mine! so good!”
mia Taylor
30
November 2024