General X-ray
What is a general X-ray?
General X-ray, also called radiography, uses a controlled amount of ionising radiation to create images of structures inside the body. Different tissues absorb X-rays differently, allowing bones and certain other structures to be assessed.
X-rays are commonly requested for suspected fractures, joint concerns and chest symptoms. The radiographer selects the views needed for the body part and the question raised in the referral.
An X-ray is often one of the first imaging examinations performed, but some findings may require further assessment with ultrasound, CT or MRI.
What to expect
- Tell the radiographer if you are pregnant or could be pregnant before the examination begins.
- You may need to remove jewellery, glasses or clothing with metal over the area being imaged.
- Follow any positioning or clothing instructions provided by the team.
- Bring relevant previous imaging information if your clinician has requested a comparison.
- The radiographer will position you standing, sitting or lying down, depending on the body part being examined.
- You may need more than one view so that the area can be assessed from different directions.
- Remain still during each exposure to help produce a clear image.
- For chest or abdominal images, you may be asked to take a breath and hold it briefly.
- A routine X-ray does not usually require recovery time.
- You can generally return to your normal activities immediately after the images are taken.
- If you have an injury, continue to follow the advice of the clinician treating you.
- The images are reviewed and reported through the referring healthcare professional.
Safety and results
- X-rays use ionising radiation, so each examination should have an appropriate clinical reason.
- The radiographer selects the necessary views and suitable exposure settings for the examination.
- Pregnancy or possible pregnancy should be disclosed before imaging so the team can consider the most appropriate approach.
- Tell the radiographer if a position is painful or difficult so they can help you as safely as possible.
Please contact our team if you have questions about your examination or preparation instructions.
A radiologist reviews the X-ray images and reports findings relevant to the referral, such as changes in bones, joints or the chest. Sometimes the images are compared with earlier examinations or a different scan is recommended for more detail. Your referring healthcare professional will explain the report and discuss treatment or further investigations if needed.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.