Digital X-ray

Description

This is the simplest form of imaging. It uses an X-Ray tube and a cassette to record the image. There is a plate inside the cassette that records the information which is then processed by a computer in order to produce a visible image. This is known as computed radiography (CR).
Plain film imaging is quick to produce and, depending on the examination, involves a relatively low dose of radiation to you, and usually none to staff.
For the majority of examinations there is no preparation required. You may continue to eat and drink and take your medication as usual. If any preparation is required, a member of staff will contact you with specific instructions.
Contraindications are reasons why an X-Ray may not be taken. There are no medical conditions that would make having an X-Ray unsuitable. However, for women who are or might be pregnant, it is advised that X-Rays are not undertaken other than in emergency situations.

Image intensifier:

This intesifies an image thousands of time its original, thereby enabling the x-ray image to be projected on a monitor and thus be seen in day light. This enables the investigation to be done in day light conditions instead of being done in the dark. There is also better visualisation of the organs and hence there is better supervision during investigations and thus better quality of investigations are done. Image intensifier also substantially reduces the radiation dose to the patient and the operator.