An X-Ray is a simple and painless test that takes detailed pictures of the inside of the body. X-Rays are a form of radiation energy able to pass through human tissue. The X-Ray machine uses a tube to produce an X-Ray beam which is carefully aimed on the part of the body being examined.

X-Rays work by emitting a beam of electromagnetic radiation that has a shorter wavelength than visible light. This high-energy radiation can penetrate through soft tissues (e.g. lungs) and is absorbed by denser materials (e.g. bones), creating an image that is interpreted by a medical professional to examine the relevant structures to diagnose various medical conditions.

Depending on the type of X-Ray, we will ask the patient to lie on a table, sit or stand.

You will either be asked to stand behind a screen whilst the X-Ray is taken, or you will be provided with a lead PPE which a radiographer will help you put on. This provides a protective layer of lead over the body to protect you from the radiation whilst the images are taken.

The X-Ray scan appointment will typically take no longer than 20 minutes.

The number of X-Ray scans an individual can have depends on the medical necessity and the judgment of the healthcare professional. It is important to balance the benefits of obtaining diagnostic information with the potential risks associated with radiation exposure.

Chest X-Ray is one of the most commonly used radiological investigations in medical practice. Although it is a relatively simple form of investigation compared to newer imaging modalities like CT scans and MRI scans, it still can be used as a first-line investigation to diagnose a variety of conditions and abnormalities within the chest area.

It can help identify lung infections, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, detect lung tumours or masses, evaluate the size and shape of the heart, and assess the condition of the bones and blood vessels within the chest cavity. Additionally, it can reveal signs of fluid accumulation in the lungs or surrounding tissues.

Yes, a chest X-Ray can detect certain signs of lung cancer, such as abnormal masses or nodules in the lungs. However, it is important to note that a chest X-Ray alone may not provide a definitive diagnosis. Further testing, such as a CT scan or biopsy, may be necessary to confirm the presence of lung cancer.

X-Rays and fluoroscopy are both branches of medical imaging, but they differ in their specific techniques and applications. X-Rays involve capturing static images of the body and it is commonly used to diagnose and monitor various conditions by examining the structure and anatomy of organs and tissues. On the other hand, fluoroscopy is a real-time imaging technique that uses continuous X-Ray beams to visualise moving structures within the body, such as blood flow within a vessel or the placement of a device under direct visual guidance.

It is generally safe to have an X-Ray during pregnancy, especially if it is necessary for medical reasons. However, it is important to minimise radiation exposure as much as possible (especially to the abdomen and pelvis). It is recommended to inform your healthcare provider about your pregnancy so they can take appropriate precautions and use shielding techniques to protect both you and your baby.

You will be exposed to a small amount of radiation but the screen or lead apron will help to provide protection from it.

We are all exposed to natural background radiation every day from the earth, the air, building materials, food, and even outer space (cosmic rays). The average annual background radiation exposure in the UK is 2.7 mSv (milliSieverts) (PHE 2011). The maximum radiation that you will be exposed to during an examination in general radiology will be about 0.1 mSv. This is equal to about 13 days of natural background radiation. This has a negligible additional risk of cancer (HSE 2013).

Your referring doctor will receive the results of the X-Ray scan within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. However, if detailed analysis or reporting is required by a radiologist, it may take longer. Feel free to contact your healthcare provider or our team at UME Health to obtain more information related to your query.