X-Ray Examinations

What is an X-Ray Examination?

An X-ray examination is a painless medical imaging procedure used to create pictures of the internal structures of your body. It is particularly effective for visualising:

Bone fractures and joint abnormalities
Lung and chest conditions (e.g., pneumonia, TB)
Digestive system disorders (with contrast)
Foreign objects in the body
Medical devices or treatment tubes in place

X-rays remain the first step in diagnosing many conditions because they are widely available, quick, and produce immediate results that physicians can use to guide treatment.

What to Expect During an X-Ray Examination

We aim to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s what typically happens during X-ray examinations.

Before the Procedure

Pregnancy caution: If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, it is essential to inform your doctor. X-ray procedures are generally avoided unless absolutely necessary.
Clothing: You may be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any jewellery or metal objects that could interfere with the imaging.
Consent and preparation: Special instructions for procedures involving contrast material will be given ahead of time.

During the Procedure

Positioning: A radiographer will guide you into specific positions to get the best views (called “projections”) of the area of concern.
Lead shielding: Protective lead shields may be used to protect parts of your body not being imaged.
Stillness and instructions: To avoid blurry images, you may be asked to hold your breath and remain completely still during the X-ray.
Duration: Depending on the complexity of the procedure, it may take anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour.
Discomfort: Positioning may cause discomfort or temporary pain if you've sustained an injury.

After the Procedure

The results are typically ready within 30 minutes.
Your referring doctor will discuss the findings with you.

How to Prepare for an X-Ray Examination

What You Need to Bring

A referral note from your doctor detailing the required x-ray procedure based on your medical history.

Appointment Guidelines

No appointment is needed for routine X-rays.
If your procedure requires special preparation (such as contrast studies), you will be given a scheduled appointment and preparation instructions.

Important Notes

Pregnancy: Always inform the radiographer if there’s a chance you are pregnant.
Allergies: Inform the radiographer of any allergies, especially to contrast materials.

Your Health, Our Priority

With proven safety, speed, and reliability, x-ray examinations continue to be an essential tool in modern medical diagnostics. Whether you're visiting for a routine check or a more detailed assessment, our qualified radiographers ensure your experience is comfortable, informed, and efficient.

Do you need more information, or are you preparing for an upcoming X-ray? Contact us for guidance or to confirm any special preparations.

Further information on procedures

AVAILABLE AT THE
FOLLOWING BRANCHES

Bedford Gardens Hospital
Alberton Hospital
Linksfield Hospital
Mulbarton Hospital
Roseacres Clinic
Sunward Park Hospital
MediMix

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

X-ray examinations are among modern medicine’s most established and reliable diagnostic tools. They are non-invasive, fast, and highly effective in helping physicians see inside the body and diagnose a wide range of conditions, from bone fractures to lung infections and gastrointestinal issues.

This imaging technique uses X-rays generated by X-ray machines to produce images of internal body structures. Different tissues appear in various shades depending on their density on an X-ray image. Bones appear white, air appears black, and soft tissues are displayed in shades of grey.

In certain diagnostic scenarios, contrast material may be used to enhance the visibility of internal organs or blood vessels. These contrast-enhanced procedures require special preparation and may involve swallowing the contrast or having it inserted into a blood vessel or body cavity.