X-Ray (Radiograph)

An X-ray is a noninvasive test. It can last from a few minutes up to 20 minutes, depending on the number of images needed. 

Here’s what will happen during your X-ray:

1. You may need to remove specific items of clothing and put on a gown, depending on the part of your body that needs imaging.

2. You’ll be asked to remove all jewellery and metal accessories, such as hair clips, piercings, and watches that are in the area of interest.

3. The radiographer will help you get into a position (this can occasionally be uncomfortable) that allows the image to be taken. This may be sitting, lying, or standing. 

4. The radiographer will move the X-ray machine into position.

5. The radiographer will stand behind a screen to take the images. You won’t feel anything when this happens.

6. You’ll need to keep very still when the images are being taken. You may be asked to hold your breath for a short while.

7. When the radiographer has taken enough images, the test is complete.

Please let the team know if you would like a chaperone to accompany you.

If you’re not expected to be seen in the clinic after or attend other appointments, you’ll be able to go home straight away after your X-rayX-ray.

As X-rays involve radiation, some people worry about the impact on their body and overall health. 

In general, the radiation dose from an X-ray is very low (particularly for the extremities) — a chest X-ray gives a very small amount of radiation, about the same as you would naturally be exposed to over a few days to a week, or similar to taking a flight across the Atlantic. An ankle X-ray is even lower. However, an abdominal X-ray is higher, roughly equal to what you would normally receive from natural sources over 3 to 4 months. It’s important to note that this is highly dependent on your size. The risk of cancer from an X-ray occurring many years later is very small.

At Welbeck, we only use X-rays when they’re necessary to help with diagnosing or managing your problem. Our clinic follows strict guidelines when accepting X-ray referral forms. We work in line with the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations (IRMER), which means we must make sure every X-ray is properly justified and clinically appropriate before it can go ahead. This is to ensure that patients only receive X-rays when they are truly needed, and that the benefits of having the test always outweigh any small risks from radiation.

X-rays in pregnancy

If you’re pregnant, or there’s a chance you may be, let the team know. X-rays aren’t usually recommended for pregnant women, unless it’s an emergency or there’s no alternative option.

You likely won’t need to do anything in preparation for your X-ray. If you do, the team will give you instructions ahead of time. You may receive specific prep to take before the X-ray, such as tablets for colonic transit studies.

Usually, you’ll be able to continue eating, drinking, and taking any medications on the day of your test.

Wear comfortable, loose clothing that doesn’t have metal zips or fastenings, and remove any jewellery before your X-ray.

An X-ray is a quick and painless test, so you won’t need to follow any recovery or aftercare advice.

A consultant radiologist will evaluate the resulting image or images from your X-ray and report their findings back to you at a follow-up appointment.

Please contact our Imaging & Diagnostics centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our radiologists and radiographers are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book an X-ray, you must be referred by a doctor. On rare occasions, some Non-Medical referrers can request X-rays. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.