X-ray - How an X-ray is carried out

During an X-ray, you'll be asked to lie on a table or stand against a flat surface.

This is so the part of your body being examined can be positioned between the X-ray machine and photographic plate.

X-rays are usually carried out by radiographers, who are healthcare professionals trained in using imaging technology such as X-ray machines, computerised tomography (CT) scanners and ultrasound scanners.

The X-ray machine

An X-ray machine is made up of several parts, including an X-ray tube, a photographic plate and lead shielding. 

The X-ray tube is like a giant light bulb that uses high-voltage electricity to generate X-rays. The lead shielding directs the X-rays towards the part of your body being examined and prevents them escaping in all directions. The photographic plate captures the image produced by the X-rays as they pass through your body.

In the past, the photographic plate used the same type of film as a traditional camera. However, nowadays the plate in most X-ray machines is connected to a computer so that a digital image can be taken.

The X-ray procedure

When you have an X-ray, the part of your body being examined will be exposed to X-rays for a fraction of a second. It's a safe and painless procedure.

As the X-rays hit the photographic plate, the plate will capture a snapshot of the image. The image will be transferred directly from the photographic plate to a computer so that it can be studied on a screen. If necessary, the image can be also be printed out.

While the X-ray is being taken, you'll need to keep still so that the image produced isn't blurred. More than one X-ray may be taken from different angles to provide as much information as possible. For example, if your lungs are being examined, X-rays of both the front and side of your body will be taken.

A radiologist will study your X-ray images. Radiologists are doctors who are specially trained to carry out examinations and interpret medical images, such as X-rays and CT scans.

The radiologist may discuss their findings with you on the day of your X-ray, or they may send a report to your GP.