An X-ray is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the inside of the body. X-rays are a very effective way of detecting problems with bones, such as fractures. They can also often identify problems with soft tissue, such as pneumonia or breast cancer.
If you have a X-ray, you will be asked to lie on a table or stand against a surface so that the part of your body being X-rayed is between the X-ray tube and the photographic plate.
An X-ray is usually carried out by a radiographer, a healthcare professional who specialises in using imaging technology, such as X-rays and ultrasound scanners.
You can find out more about x-ray tests, how they are performed, their function and the risks by visiting the NHS Choices website.
Most x-rays, including CT scans, can be done at the Vale of Leven Hospital. For MRI scanning you will need to travel, usually to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.
If you are given a form to have an x-ray done at the Vale of Leven Hospital, please note that the open access service operates Monday to Friday between 09.30 and 12.30 and between 1.30 and 4.30
Reports of x-rays usually take 1-2 weeks to arrive at the practice.