X-ray

An X-ray uses a small amount of ionising radiation to create an image of internal structures. It is often used to assess bones or the chest, but its usefulness depends on the clinical question. Not every injury or symptom needs an X-ray, and a normal image does not rule out every possible problem.

What should I tell the imaging team?

Mention pregnancy or possible pregnancy and any relevant prior imaging. The team considers the body area, urgency and appropriate precautions. Necessary imaging should be assessed individually rather than automatically cancelled or assumed risk-free.

Follow instructions about clothing, jewellery and positioning. If movement is painful or you have a disability affecting the examination, tell the staff so they can help. Do not force an injured limb into position without guidance.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: X-rays - what are they and different types - Healthdirect Australia.

Why might a doctor choose another test?

X-rays show some structures better than others. Soft tissue, early injury or particular disease processes may need another method or clinical follow-up. A doctor decides whether further imaging would change care, rather than ordering every available test.

A request form may contain a suspected diagnosis, not a confirmed one. Ask what the examination is intended to investigate and what the next step will be if it is normal. Persistent symptoms still deserve review when the clinical picture has not been explained.

How will I receive the report?

The imaging provider usually sends a report to the referring clinician. Confirm when it will be reviewed and whether you need another appointment. Do not assume the operator's comments during the procedure are the final result.

See Doccio's imaging service information for suitable clinical discussions. A doctor decides whether imaging is appropriate; fees and Medicare eligibility vary. Major injury, deformity, loss of sensation or circulation, severe breathing difficulty or other emergency symptoms need urgent assessment in a setting that can provide immediate treatment, not just an outpatient image.

Where to go next

Read imaging to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.