X-ray at Cheltenham Hospital

What is an X-ray?

An X-ray is a fast and painless test that examines bones and other dense structures in the body. The X-ray machine sends a short burst of radiation through your body to create an image on a screen or film. X-rays enable doctors to view the inside of the body and check for any injuries or abnormalities.

This video explains what to expect during X-ray, CT (CAT) and MRI scanning.

How will I know if I need an X-ray?

Your healthcare professional will refer you for an X-ray if they think it is clinically appropriate. X-rays can be used to examine various parts of the body and help diagnose a wide range of health conditions, including:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Scoliosis
• Infections in bones and tissues
• Joint issues
• Lung conditions (such as pneumonia and lung cancer)
• Dental issues
• Heart abnormalities
• Certain cancerous and non-cancerous tumours

How should I prepare for an X-ray?

Most X-rays do not require any specific preparation, but you will be informed at the time of booking if any preparation is needed.

If you are having an abdominal X-ray and you think you may be pregnant, please contact the team at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital.

Where possible, it is always best to attend the radiology department with a minimal amount of accessory clothing or jewellery as you will likely be asked to change into a hospital gown to maximise the quality of the images produced.

What happens during an X-ray?

You will be asked to stand, sit or lie in a desired position so the radiographer can capture images of your limb, joint or required body part. During the imaging, you might need to hold your breath briefly to remain in an uncomfortable position, but this will only be for a short time.

Depending on which area you are having scanned or the type of X-ray needed, your Radiographer may take a single image or multiple images with you in different positions.

How long does an X-ray take?

Each X-ray image takes only a few seconds to capture, but if multiple images are needed, your appointment may last up to 20 minutes.

Are X-rays safe?

X-rays are generally very safe, with minimal risk involved. The use of X-rays at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital is carefully regulated, and X-rays are only used when the benefits outweigh any potential risks. X-ray examinations are therefore only done when necessary.

When an X-ray is taken, a small amount of radiation is absorbed by the body. This is called the radiation dose. The dose from a diagnostic X-ray is low and often compared to natural background radiation we're exposed to daily.

There's no need to worry about the radiation, as your healthcare professional will only recommend an X-ray because it is important for diagnosing a potential issue.

How and when will I receive my X-ray results?

Your results will be verified by a Radiologist and sent to your referring healthcare professional within a week of your appointment.

Times may vary for specialist examinations, so we recommend checking with the team at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital before you leave.

Your referrer may recommend a follow-up appointment to discuss your results.

Why choose us for an X-ray?

There are many reasons to come to Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital for an X-ray including:

• Quick appointments arranged at your convenience
• No waiting lists
• Rapid results within 5 days
• A friendly team of experienced experts

How can I book an X-ray?

You will need a referral from a healthcare professional to book an X-ray at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital. If you have an outpatient consultation with a Nuffield Health consultant, they will refer you for a scan if clinically appropriate.

You can also use a referral from your GP or alternative healthcare professional. Please email your referral to Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital, and a team member will call you back.

How much does an X-ray cost?

For more pricing information, please get in touch with the team using the form below.