X-Ray
An X-ray is a quick and commonly used scan that provides clear images of the inside of the body. It is often used to examine bones, joints and the chest, helping doctors investigate injuries, pain, infection and other health concerns. Most X-rays are painless and take only a few minutes.
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What does an X-ray examine?
X-rays are most commonly used to look at bones and joints, but they can also provide useful information about the lungs, heart and abdomen.
Why might I need an X-ray?
Your doctor may refer you for an X-ray to check for a fracture or dislocation, investigate joint pain or arthritis, assess chest symptoms or look for signs of infection. X-rays can also be used to monitor healing or changes over time.
What can I expect?
A radiographer will help position the part of your body being examined. You may be asked to keep still or hold your breath briefly while the images are taken. Sometimes several images are needed from different angles.
The examination is usually quick and painless, although some positions may feel uncomfortable if you are injured. Please let your radiographer know if you are experiencing pain so they can make you as comfortable as possible.
How should I prepare?
There is usually no special preparation required for a general X-ray. You may need to remove jewellery, clothing or other items containing metal and change into a gown.
Benefits of X-ray imaging
X-rays provide fast and reliable images that can help your doctor make a diagnosis and plan the most appropriate treatment.
FAQs
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General X-rays are often available without an appointment at all Marina Radiology clinics, however, we recommend scheduling an appointment to reduce your wait time.
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Most X-rays take only a few minutes. Your appointment may take a little longer if several areas or different views need to be examined.
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X-rays use a small amount of radiation. Our experienced radiographers will only take the images needed and will keep the radiation exposure as low as possible.
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Please let our team know if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. We will review your circumstances and determine whether the examination should proceed or be arranged for another time.
Dental X-Ray (OPG)
OPG is the acronym used for Orthopantomogram; a form of dental x-ray which captures panoramic images of the teeth, gums and bones of the jaw. To achieve the panoramic view of your jaw, the OPG machine rotates around your head, taking less than 10 seconds in total.
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When attending your scan, please bring your referral from your medical practitioner, Medicare card and all other relevant health care cards. Please also bring any previous scans or reports relating to the region being scanned, if they were not undertaken at Marina.
No appointment is necessary for an OPG at Marina, but should you have a preferred time to attend, an appointment would be beneficial.
No other preparation is required for an OPG. You may however be asked by your radiographer to remove any metallic objects (earrings, hair clips, necklaces etc) near your head and neck to avoid interference with the scan. It is therefore advisable to leave any such items at home.
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OPG’s are quick examinations and typically take only 5 minutes in total.
To help position your head correctly and minimise movement during the scan, you will be asked to place your chin on a chin rest, bite down on a sterile mouth piece, and hold onto a pair of handles. Your radiographer will then ask you to remain as still as possible and will initiate the scan. You will then see the machine rotate around your head however it will not make contact with you.
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Your referring practitioner will be able to access the images from the scan immediately via our online portal. Once one of our specialist doctors (radiologist) has reviewed and assessed your scan, the report will also be sent to your practitioner either electronically, or by fax.
Following your scan, Marina strongly advises that you return to your dental professional to discuss your results and subsequent treatment.
FAQ’S
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No, X-Rays cannot be felt and the machine will not come into contact with you during the scan.
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Every X-Ray, OPG and CT machine at Marina is fitted with advanced low dose technology which minimises the radiation dose of every scan for every patient. Additionally, Marina is known and acknowledged for fostering a strong low dose culture thereby further reducing exposure levels.
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Unborn babies are more sensitive to the risks associated with x-rays. It is therefore important that you inform our staff and your doctor if you are, or may be pregnant prior to your x-ray.
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If your assistance is required to help calm or keep your child still, we will supply you with a lead gown so you can accompany them during the procedure. However, in cases where you are pregnant or have other young children with you, you are asked to please bring an additional adult with you to assist. Unborn babies and young children are more susceptible to the effects of x-rays thus Marina mandates avoiding any unnecessary exposure.
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You will receive all findings from your scan from your referring practitioner. The responsibility of the radiographer is to perform and produce high quality images for the radiologist to interpret.
