X-ray
An x-ray is a quick and painless diagnostic test used to help diagnose many health conditions.
X-rays work by projecting a form of radiation through part of your body to produce a black and white image of your bones, joints and soft tissues. They can be used to check:
- bones for fractures or infection
- joints for damage or inflammation
- soft tissues and organs for signs of disease.
Our service
We provide a comprehensive range of x-ray examinations for both inpatients and outpatients including:
- Skull x-ray
- Spinal x-rays
- Chest x-ray
- Abdominal x-ray
- Pelvic x-ray
- Extremity x-rays – arms, legs, feet and 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 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 24 hours. Results will usually be sent to the doctor or consultant who referred you for the x-ray.
Referrals
You will usually need to be referred for diagnostic imaging by a GP or other healthcare professional.
Appointments and enquiries
For further information or to arrange a x-ray, please contact our Diagnostic Services team on 020 8936 1202 or enquire online.
