Plain Film Radiography (X-rays)

An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps clinicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionising radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.

An x-ray is produced when a small amount of radiation passes through the body and strikes an image receptor placed on the other side of the body.

X-rays are absorbed into tissues and bones at varying degrees, depending ultimately on the composition and mass. For instance, bone, which does not allow much radiation to penetrate, results in white images being produced whereas lungs which are less dense, as they are filled with air, would appear darker.

X-rays can be used to view most parts of the body for injury or disease including upper and lower limbs, shoulder, skull, spine, chest abdomen and pelvis.

At the time of examination the Radiographer will not be able to give you any results. A Consultant Radiologist will report on the images and provide a report to the clinician who referred you within 72 hours.

Depending on the scan you will take a CD of the images home with you on the day.