Having an X-Ray
What is an X-ray?
An X-ray is an examination which produces an image of the structures inside the body. An X-ray beam is produced by the X-ray machine which is absorbed by the body to obtain an image. It is a quick examination. This information may help your consultant with diagnosis and planning of your treatment. It is a quick examination.
It is important that you inform the X-ray department as soon as possible if you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant. Please call 0121 685 4000 and enter the extension number 55470.
Why do I need an X-ray?
Your doctor or healthcare professional should have explained how the results from having an X-ray can help improve your diagnosis or treatment. Our aim is to ensure that the benefits from having the X-ray and the correct diagnosis or treatment outweigh the very low risk involved with the X-ray itself.
What happens during the X-ray?
- You may be asked to change into a gown by a member of staff depending on which part of your body is to be examined.
- You will then be taken into the X-ray room. We will make you comfortable and answer any queries you may have.
- Depending on the area that is being examined you will either stand, sit or lay down.
- The Radiographer will be able to see and speak to you throughout the examination.
- The duration of the examination will vary depending on which area is being looked at.
- You can expect to be in the X-ray department for up to an hour depending on how busy the department is, however many examinations are completed in a shorter time.
What happens after the X-ray?
If you have a clinic appointment, you will go back to see your medical professional in clinic. If no clinic appointment has been made or a GP has referred, you for the X-ray the results will be forwarded to the medical professional or GP in charge of your care.
Important note
If you are within childbearing age (11-55), have not had a period within the last 28 days and think you may be pregnant than please contact the Imaging Department.
Are there any risks?
- For each medical X-ray you will receive a small amount of radiation.
- The use of X-rays will be kept to a minimum.
- An X-ray of your chest, limbs or teeth is equivalent to a few days' worth of background radiation and has less than a 1 in 1,000,000 chance of causing cancer (www.nhs.uk).
- There are no side effects from the examination and patients are able to get back to their normal routine straight after.
- More information on patient dose is available on www.gov.uk
More information
Imaging Department - 0121 812 3370 /
If you are unable to keep your appointment it is important that you let us know as soon as you can on the contact details provided above. Failure to inform us may mean that you will not be sent a further appointment in the future.