What is an X-Ray?
An X-Ray (radiograph) is a technique that uses low dose radiation to create pictures of bones and other internal tissues such as your lungs and bowel. High Street X-Ray uses state of the art digital X-Ray equipment, resulting in a reduced amount of radiation for excellent image quality.
How do I prepare for my X-Ray?
A basic X-Ray does not require any special preparation.
It is important that you tell your doctor and the staff at ClearView if there is any chance you might be pregnant. Your safety and that of your unborn child is our priority.
You may be provided with a gown to wear instead of your own clothes, as some materials will show up on the X-Ray. You may also be asked to remove some objects such as watches, keys and jewellery which will show up on the X-Ray.
If you are having a follow-up X-ray to assess the progress of an injury or illness, it could be helpful if you take any previous results with you so that our doctor can compare the new X-ray with the old image to assess any changes.
What happens during an X-Ray?
The radiographer (trained X-ray technologist) will explain the procedure to you. You will be asked to stand or lie down. The number of images, positions and the time it takes will vary.
During the X-Ray, you will be asked to remain as still as possible or hold your breath in order to improve the quality of the images. As is the case with regular photography, anything moving will appear blurry and may require the X-Ray to be repeated.
Are there any after-effects from an X-Ray?
You will not feel anything during or after the X-ray is taken. There are no after-effects from a general X-Ray. You will be able to go about your normal activities immediately after your X-Ray is completed.
What are the risks of an X-Ray?
Having an X-Ray will expose your body to a very low level of radiation. Health experts feel that the risk to your health from this is very small, and your referring doctor will weigh this low risk against the test’s benefits. No radiation remains in your body after the test.
Our radiographers are trained to use the smallest possible amount of X-rays to produce a diagnostic image.
Who does the X-Ray report?
Our radiologist is a medical specialist who reviews and interprets the images and provides a written report. This is electronically sent or faxed to your referring doctor or allied health worker.