Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic scanning technique based on the principles of magnetic resonance. MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio frequency waves to produce detailed images of the internal organs and tissues. It can be used to investigate almost any part of the body and is most commonly used to examine the brain, joints and discs in the spine. No radiation is involved in an MRI scan.
Ultrasound imaging (or sonography) is a method of acquiring information about the inside of the body using high frequency sound waves to show the size, shape and texture of the internal organs and blood vessels. Ultrasound waves cannot pass through gas so the stomach or bowel cannot be evaluated.
Computed Tomography (CT) is a scanning technique that uses X-Rays to take highly detailed images of the body. A CT scan can give detailed information about many parts of the body, including the lungs, bones, soft tissues, heart and blood vessels. It can be used to diagnose and monitor many conditions.
An X-Ray is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. It is a painless medical scan that is used to produce an internal image of an area of the body to assist in the diagnosis of many medical conditions.
DXA stands for “Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry”, which is the use of X-rays to determine bone mass. It is considered the gold standard for bone density testing and is widely used in the diagnosis of Osteoporosis.
Fluoroscopy is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses X-rays to produce real-time images of the body. It is commonly used to guide pain injection procedures, such as nerve blocks and epidural injections. These procedures can help alleviate chronic pain caused by conditions such as arthritis and herniated discs.
HAVING XRAYS AND CT
RADIATION
Everyone receives some ionising radiation every day from radioactivity in the air, food that we eat and even from space
Your age and size and the reason for your scan will influence the amount of radiation used.
The main benefit of the scan is making the correct diagnosis, so you can get the treatment that is right for you. A specialist has agreed that this benefit outweighs the risk from the radiation
YOUR HEALTH
Your scan will help us make a diagnosis requested by your referring doctor
You will be looked after by a radiographer to make sure you are safe during your scan.
X-Ray and CT scans both uses ionising radiation (x-rays) to produce very detailed images of parts of your body.
OUR STAFF AND EQUIPMENT
Radiographers are trained to take the best possible images using the lowest amount of radiation practicable
Our equipment is regularly serviced and checked to make sure the test is safe and effective
Our radiographers will explain the benefits and risks of the scan and any risks of being a carer or comforter.
You will not have any radiation in your body after the scan.
Please tell us BEFORE going into the scan room if:
There is any chance you may be pregnant
CARERS AND COMFORTERS FOR XRAY AND CT
As a carer or comforter, you will be protected from this radiation by wearing a protective apron if you are requested to carry a child or sit beside a child during a scan.
The Radiographer will ask you to sign the confirmation log indicating that the risks have been explained to you and that there is no possibility that you could be pregnant.
OUR STAFF AND EQUIPMENT
Radiographers are trained to take the best possible images using the lowest amount of radiation practicable
Our equipment is regularly serviced and checked to make sure the test is safe and effective
Our radiographers will explain the benefits and risks of the scan and any risks of being a carer or comforter.
You will not have any radiation in your body after the scan.
DOs and DONTs FOR CARERS AND COMFORTERS
A parent or Guardian does not always need to be in the scan room – please listen to the advice and instructions of the Radiographer
Do inform the Radiographer BEFORE entering the scan room if there is any possibility of you being pregnant
Do not use your phone or take any photographic images in the scan room.
OR YOU THINK YOU MAY BE PREGNANT
ALLOWED
