X-ray
Fast, reliable diagnostic clarity
X-Ray Imaging
X-ray imaging, also known as radiography, uses a very small dose of ionising radiation to create clear images of the body’s internal structures.
As the most established and widely used form of medical imaging, X-rays play a vital role in diagnosing fractures, injuries, and infections.
In some cases, an iodine-based or barium contrast agent may be used to enhance the visibility of specific organs, blood vessels, tissues, or bone.
What to Expect
Your Visit Step by Step
If you have been referred to us by your physician to go for an X-ray you do not have to book an appointment. Note that emergency cases will, however, be prioritised.
On the day of your exam (depending on the area of study), you might be asked to wear a gown. Before your procedure starts, the radiographer will position you on the X-ray table to best display the area of study. You may be asked to wear a lead shield to help protect certain parts of your body.
Once you are in position the radiographer will manoeuvre the X-ray machine into the desired position and then walk behind a wall or into the adjacent room to activate the X-ray machine.
You must try to hold very still, and may be asked to keep from breathing for a few seconds while the X-ray picture is taken, to ensure the quality of the image.
X-ray examinations are painless.
In some cases, you may experience discomfort due to the positioning requested by the radiographer or from your injury. During the exam, you might be repositioned a few times should images be required from a different angle.
When the examination is complete, you may be asked to wait until the radiologist determines that all the necessary images have been obtained. The exam time is generally dependant on the area of study and the number of images required.
The average time for procedure: 10 – 25 minutes. The average time is dependent on the area and the complexity of your procedure and the number of images required.
Before and After a X-Ray
Before the X-ray
• you suspect that you might be pregnant
• you have an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted for pregnancy prevention.
Depending on the area of study you may be asked to wear a gown before the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewellery, removable dental appliances, eyeglasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the X-ray images.
Depending on the area of study, you may be asked to empty your bladder before the test.