X-Ray – NHS Forth Valley

An X-ray is a quick and painless procedure commonly used to produce images of the inside of the body. X-rays are a very effective way of looking at bones and can help detect a wide range of conditions.

Specially trained operators called Radiographers will perform the examination, although other healthcare professionals, such as dentists, can also perform them.

Your X-ray may take place at Forth Valley Royal Hospital or Stirling Health & Care Village. The location will be confirmed on your appointment notification.

Radiation exposure

X-ray machines use radiation to generate the “pictures” we need for your diagnosis and treatment. We are all exposed to natural background radiation every day of our lives. This comes from our environment, the air we breathe, the food we eat and even from outer space (cosmic rays).

Each medical X-ray therefore gives us a small additional dose on top of this natural background radiation. The level of dose varies with the type of examination. Common X-ray examinations such as chest, the torso and the limbs, involve amounts of radiation that are equivalent to less than 3 months of natural background radiation.

Preparation instructions

In most cases, you do not need to do anything special before an X-ray. You can eat, drink, and take your usual medications as normal.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing if possible. Avoid jewellery and clothes with metal parts (such as zips), as these may need to be removed.

Pregnancy

If there is any chance you may be pregnant, please inform the department as soon as possible. We may not be able to carry out the examination if you are, or might be, pregnant.

For certain X-ray examinations, pregnancy status will be checked for patients aged between 12-55 years, inclusive, in accordance with The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017.

After your X-ray

You will not have any after-effects from a standard X-ray and can return to normal activities straight away.

Results

Results are not usually available on the same day. They will be sent to the doctor or healthcare professional who referred you. Staff can advise when to expect them.

Some X-rays may be reported by an external Radiology Reporting company, but your confidential information is kept secure.