Diagnostic x-rays provide information about medical conditions. X-rays have energy that penetrates deep into and through objects. An x-ray image is created when radiation passes through the body and is received on the other side by a detector. X-rays are electrically generated and are only present while the image is taken.
The x-ray energy is a type of radiation dose, and this is important to produce the images.
Depending on the density of an object, an x-ray will pass through (skin and muscle) or be absorbed (bones and metal implants). The differences in these densities are what make up an x-ray image.
Some x-ray examinations use live x-rays/fluoroscopy, which requires iodine or barium as a contrast agent (dye).
X-rays can be used to look at bones as well as other structures inside your body such as the lungs and bowel. X-rays are also used to see other things which may be inside the body such as a joint replacement, swallowed coins or other metals, or a kidney stone.
Preparation
Mostly, x-rays do not require any preparation. However, if you have a barium study, you will need to fast, which will be explained to you at the time of booking. If you have a barium enema study, you will need to collect a bowel preparation kit from one of our clinics. This kit requires you to follow a special diet and laxative drink the day before your x-ray, which will be explained to you at the time of booking, and you will be given detailed instructions.
Before your x-ray, you may be asked to change into an examination gown for your comfort and to make sure clothing does not affect the images and diagnostic quality of the x-ray. You may also be asked to remove jewellery, eye-glasses and any metal objects that might interfere with the images.
Duration
Depending on the part of the body x-rayed, you may need to stand, sit on a chair or lie down on the x-ray table. The radiographer will explain what is required and make sure you are comfortable.
The time it takes to do x-rays depends on what part of the body is x-rayed. However, they usually take between 10 and 20 minutes.
Risks / Side effects
All x-rays involve exposure to radiation. The radiation exposure from an x-ray will vary with the type of scan and the size of the patient. The x-ray beam is limited to the area being imaged to reduce the radiation dose as low as possible.
Everyone is exposed to radiation from natural sources every day. The low doses of radiation used in medical imaging mean the risk associated with exposure is so small that it can’t be reliably measured. When an x-ray is medically advised to investigate health problems or potential underlying disease, the medical benefits such as correct diagnosis and treatment, are believed to far outweigh the theoretical risks from radiation. Having an x-ray will not make you radioactive.
Pregnant women are encouraged to minimise exposure to radiation unless it is deemed necessary. It is important to tell our staff if there is any chance you may be pregnant before booking your appointment.
Patients drinking Barium for a swallow procedure may experience constipation and are advised to drink more water than normal after the procedure to ensure the bowel is flushed thoroughly.
View the Patient Care page for additional information regarding patient safety.
Many of our X-ray services can be done without a booking – simply bring your referral to your nearest Jones Radiology clinic. Check our walk-in clinics to find one near you.
For patients who prefer to plan ahead, appointments can also be booked online or by contacting our Patient Bookings team on 1800 375 663.
FAQs
Do I need to prepare for my x-ray?
Most x-rays don’t require any preparation. If you’re having a barium study, you’ll need to fast beforehand, this will be explained when you book. For a barium enema, you’ll need to collect a bowel preparation kit from one of our clinics and follow a special diet and laxative drink the day before, with full instructions given at booking.
What should I wear or bring?
You may be asked to change into an examination gown so your clothing doesn’t affect the image quality. You may also need to remove jewellery, glasses and any metal objects that could interfere with the x-ray.
How long does an x-ray take?
Most x-rays take between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the part of the body being imaged. Your radiographer will explain what’s required and make sure you’re comfortable throughout.
Do I need an appointment?
Many of our x-ray services are available without a booking. Simply bring a valid referral, or book online if you prefer. Find your nearest clinic here.
Where can I get an x-ray?
We have many clinics offering x-ray across the Adelaide CBD, metropolitan areas, regional South Australia and Alice Springs. Many general x-ray services are available without a booking, just bring a valid referral. Find your nearest clinic here.
Do I need a referral for an x-ray?
Yes, we accept all referrals
Is x-ray radiation safe?
The radiation dose from an x-ray is limited to the area being imaged to keep exposure as low as possible. Everyone is exposed to small amounts of radiation from natural sources every day, and the low doses used in medical imaging carry a risk so small it often can’t be reliably measured. Having an x-ray will not make you radioactive. You can read more on our Dose Information page.
I'm pregnant, or might be, can I still have an x-ray?
Please tell our staff if there’s any chance you may be pregnant before booking your appointment. Pregnant women are encouraged to minimise radiation exposure unless an x-ray is deemed medically necessary.
What can an x-ray show?
X-rays are commonly used to look at bones, as well as other structures such as the lungs and bowel. They can also help identify anatomical variances such as, joint replacement, a swallowed object, or a kidney stone.
What's the difference between a general x-ray and fluoroscopy?
A general x-ray is a single still image. Some examinations use live x-ray, known as fluoroscopy, which often requires a contrast agent such as iodine or barium and allows real-time imaging of movement inside the body.
What is a barium study and will I need to do anything afterwards?
A barium study uses a contrast agent to help visualise the digestive system. If you have a barium swallow, you may experience constipation afterwards and should drink more water than usual to help flush the bowel.
Wherever barium is contraindicated, an alternate contrast agent may be used on the day.
Where can I find more detailed information?
Visit our Patient Care page for more on patient safety or contact our friendly staff.
Are you ready to make your X-Ray appointment?
Our online booking platform allows you to quickly and easily make an appointment online.
