Q: Are there any risks?

There is very little risk with having an X-ray. When X-rays are taken, some of the energy in the X-ray beam is absorbed in the body. This is called the radiation dose. Because diagnostic X-ray examinations involve relatively low doses, these doses are often compared to natural background radiation. Female patients who are, or might be pregnant, should tell the Radiographer who will decide if special precautions need to be taken. You should not worry about the radiation from the X-ray as your doctor feels there is a need to investigate a potential problem, so the risk of not having the investigation could be greater.

Question 1

What will happen when I arrive for my X-Ray?

Accepted Answer

When you arrive at the clinic, a member of staff will greet you and check your personal details, name, date of birth and address  You will be given the opportunity to ask any questions you may have You may be asked to get changed

Question 2

What will happen during the X-Ray?

Accepted Answer

Your X-ray will be carried out by a Radiographer. You may be asked to lie on a couch (X-ray table), stand against a vertical board (upright) or sit in a chair, depending on the body part that needs to be X-Rayed.   The Radiographer will manoeuvre you into the correct position, which may involve them touching the area to be X-rayed to feel for your bones and ensure you are in the correct position. They will then position the X-ray tube (camera) correctly by shining a light on the area to be X-rayed. You will be asked to keep still and sometimes to hold your breath for a few seconds while the Radiographer takes the X-ray. You will not see or feel the X-ray, but you may hear a noise from the X-ray tube (camera). This procedure may happen several times, using different positions depending upon the area being X-rayed. ​ You will be asked to wait while your images are processed. Once the Radiographer is happy with the technical outcome of the images the examination will be over and you will be able to leave the department.

Question 3

How long does an X-Ray take?

Accepted Answer

The examination normally takes between 10 and 30 minutes, although the actual duration will depend on the area of your body being examined.

Question 4

What happens after the X-Ray?

Accepted Answer

A Consultant Radiologist will report on your X-rays and the results will be sent to the referrer (doctor or other healthcare professional, who requested the examination). You will need to make an appointment with the referrer (doctor or healthcare professional) to receive your results.

Question 5

Are there any risks?

Accepted Answer

There is very little risk with having an X-ray.  ​ When X-rays are taken, some of the energy in the X-ray beam is absorbed in the body. This is called the radiation dose. Because diagnostic X-ray examinations involve relatively low doses, these doses are often compared to natural background radiation. Female patients who are, or might be pregnant, should tell the Radiographer who will decide if special precautions need to be taken. ​ You should not worry about the radiation from the X-ray as your doctor feels there is a need to investigate a potential problem, so the risk of not having the investigation could be greater.

Question 6

Is any special preparation required?

Accepted Answer

Unless you are told otherwise, no special preparation is needed. There are, however, a few things you can do to make your appointment run more smoothly: ​​ Please wear clothing that has no metallic or plastic parts such as buttons, zips and hooks, this may avoid the need to change for your examination If you have any disabilities or special needs please telephone the clinic on the number detailed in the appointment letter so that we can ensure your needs are met and, if necessary, allow extra time for your appointment