Radiology: Useful information

All clothing must be removed from the area you are having examined, including any jewellery or metal objects. This will improve the quality of the image.

You will only be asked to change into a gown when necessary.

This section explains more about having an X-ray examination, including the benefits, risks and any alternatives. It also provides information on what you can expect when you come to the Main X-ray Department in the hospital. If you have any further questions, please speak to the health care professional/s caring for you.

What is an X-ray Examination?

An X-ray examination is a quick and painless examination commonly used to produce images of the inside of the body. X-rays are an effective way of looking at the bones and joints and can be used to help detect a range of conditions and abnormalities.

X-ray examinations are carried out in the hospital’s X-ray department by trained specialists called Radiographers.

X-rays are a type of radiation that pass through the body. They cannot be seen by the naked eye and you cannot feel them.

As the X-rays pass through the body, the X-ray energy is absorbed at different rates by different parts of the body. A detector on the other side of the body picks up the X-rays after they have passed through the body and turns the X-rays into an image that the doctor can make a diagnosis from.

X-rays have difficultly to passing through dense parts of your body, for example bone. These areas show up as clear white areas on the image. Softer parts of the body that X-rays can pass through more easily, such as your heart and lungs, show up as darker areas on the image.

Why should I have an x-ray?

An X-ray can give information that leads to, or helps make a diagnosis about your medical condition. X-rays can also be used to monitor an existing condition.

A doctor, or sometimes a nurse, decides that you may benefit from having an X-ray examination by referring you to the Main X-ray Department.

X-rays can be used to examine most areas of the body. They are mainly used to look at the bones and joints, although they are sometimes used to detect problems affecting soft tissue such as internal organs.

Problems that may be detected during an X-ray examination include:-

• bone fractures and breaks
• tooth problems, such as loose teeth and dental abscesses
• scoliosis (abnormal curvature of the spine)
• non-cancerous and cancerous bone tumours
• lung problems, such as pneumonia and lung cancer
• dysphagia (swallowing problems)
• heart problems, such as heart failure

What are the risks?

X-rays are a type of radiation known as ionising radiation. The amount of radiation that you receive from a medical X-ray is very low and the associated risks are minimal. The radiographer is responsible for making sure that your dose is kept as low as possible and that the benefits of having the examination outweigh any risk.

It is important for all X-rays examinations, that you let the Doctor/nurse or radiographer know immediately if you are or could be pregnant.

Are there any alternatives?

Depending on your signs and symptoms, there may be alternative tests available including: –

• CT scan
• Ultrasound scan
• MRI

If there is a more suitable examination the Doctor will refer you for this but it might not necessarily be on the same day you attend the Main X-ray Department. You may be given an appointment to return on a different day or time.

How can I prepare for an X-ray?

Prior to your X-ray examination the Radiographer will ask you to remove jewellery and/or clothing from the area to be examined once you are called into the changing cubicle. If you need to undress you will be given a gown to put on to maintain your privacy, dignity and respect.

Giving my consent (permission)

It is important to us that you are involved in decisions about your care and treatment.

The radiographer will ask you if you are happy for the x-ray to go ahead. This is called verbal consent. If you do not wish to have the x-ray or are undecided, please inform the radiographer. It is your decision and you can change your mind at any time. Please bear in mind that not having the x-ray may delay your diagnosis. Please remember that you can ask the radiographer any questions you have at any time before, during or after your X-ray examination.

Students Radiographers may be present during the examination but only with your verbal consent.

If you would like more information about our consent process, please speak to a member of staff caring for you.

What happens during an X-ray?

To ensure the part of your body being examined can be positioned appropriately during the examination, you could be asked to either: –

• lie on an x-ray table,
• stand against a flat surface or
• sit on a chair

The X-ray machine looks like a tube containing a large light bulb. It will be carefully centred by the radiographer over the part of the body being examined. The radiographer will then operate the machine from behind a screen.

The X-ray examination is usually quick and you will not feel anything while it is carried out. However, during the examination you will be required to stay still so the image produced is not blurred. More than one X-ray may be taken from different angles to provide as much information as possible.

How long will the X-ray take?

This depends on the injury/symptoms you have and how many body parts need examined. X- ray examinations can take between 5 – 30 minutes.

Will I feel any pain?

You cannot feel X-rays, however, depending on you injury/symptoms you may find some discomfort when you are being positioned for the X-ray examination. It is important that you are positioned correctly in order to obtain good, high quality images. If you do feel uncomfortable please inform the radiographer, so that suitable adjustments can be made.

You will not experience any after effects from a standard X-ray examination and you can return to your normal activities straight away whilst waiting on your results.

When will I get the results?

The results of your X-ray will be officially reported on by either a Radiologist (X-ray Doctor) or a specially trained reporting Radiographer. The results will either be sent directly to your own GP or to your Referring Doctor in the hospital.

What if I am sent for an X-ray when I have had to attend the Emergency Department or Minor Injuries departments?

The results of your Emergency Department / Minor Injuries X-ray will go back to the Doctor/nurse who referred you. They will get to look at your X-rays and will give the results during your visit

CONTACT US

If you have any questions or concerns about coming for your X-ray, please contact ouyr main radiology reception on 028375660140 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).

Your comments and concerns

You can make your comment, suggestion or compliment in the way that best suits you. This can be face to face, on the telephone, in a letter or by email.

Corporate Complaints Office Beechfield House Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road Portadown BT63 5QQ

Tel: 028 3756 4600

Email: complaints@southerntrust.hscni.net

Involving you

The Southern Trust radiology wishes to involve the public in the planning, development and evaluation of its services, irrespective of their learning, skills, knowledge and experience. If you would like to register your contact details specifically for radiology, please contact our department 028 37564420 / 028 37564324 / 02837563807. In doing so we may contact you for telephone surveys and any future face to face activities.

This section explains more about having a CT Scan, including the benefits, risks and any alternatives. It also provides information on what you can expect when you come to hospital. If you have any further questions, please speak to the health care professional/s caring for you.

What is a CT Scan?

Computed tomography, more commonly known as a CT or CAT scan, is a diagnostic medical test that, like traditional X-rays, produces multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body.

The cross-sectional images generated during a CT scan can be reformatted in multiple planes, and can even generate three-dimensional images. These images can be viewed on a computer monitor.

CT images of internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels provide greater detail than traditional X-rays, particularly of soft tissues and blood vessels.

How can I describe a CT scan to a child?

CBeebies CT SCAN VIDEO

Why should I have a CT Scan

Using specialised equipment and expertise to create and interpret CT scans of the body, radiologists can more easily diagnose problems such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, appendicitis, trauma and musculoskeletal disorders.

What are the risks?

X-rays are a type of radiation known as ionising radiation. The dose that you get from a medical X-ray is very low and the associated risks are minimal. The radiographer is responsible for making sure that your dose is kept as low as possible and that the benefits of having the examination outweigh any risk.

When a CT scan is recommended by your doctor, the expected benefit of this test outweighs the potential risk from radiation. You are encouraged to discuss the risks versus the benefits of your CT scan with your doctor and to explore whether alternative imaging tests may be available to diagnose your condition.

It is important for all CT examinations, that you let the Doctor/nurse or radiographer know immediately if you are or could be pregnant.

Are there any alternatives?

Depending on your signs and symptoms, there may be alternative tests available including an Ultrasound or an MRI scan. If there is a more suitable examination the department will contact your referring professional to inform them.

How can I prepare for a CT Scan? 

If any preparation is required, this information will be provided at the time of booking your appointment or in your appointment letter. This may include a brief period of fasting, drinking some water or having an empty bladder. Any medication can still be taken with water prior to your scan.

You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam. You may be given a gown to wear during the procedure. Metal objects, including jewellery, eyeglasses, dentures and hairpins, may affect the CT images and should be left at home or removed prior to your exam. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work. Women will be asked to remove bras containing metal underwire. You may be asked to remove any piercings, if possible.

You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for a few hours beforehand, if contrast material will be used in your exam. You should inform your physician of all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies.

Also inform your doctor of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, kidney disease or thyroid problems.

Pregnancy and child bearing capacity 

If there is any possibility that you may be pregnant please contact us on the number below or the number on your appointment letter for advice.

Giving my consent (permission)

We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment. The radiographer will ask you if you are happy for the scan to go ahead. This is called verbal consent. If you do not wish to have the scan or are undecided, please tell the radiographer.

It is your decision and you can change your mind at any time. Please bear in mind that not having the scan may lead to a delay in diagnosis.

Students/trainees may be present during the examination but only with your verbal consent.

What happens during a CT Scan? 

The CT scanner is typically a large, box-like machine with a hole, or short tunnel, in the centre. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides into and out of the scanner. Rotating around you, the X-ray tube and electronic X-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is in a separate control room, where the radiographer operates the scanner and monitors your examination in direct visual contact and usually with the ability to hear and talk to you with the use of a speaker and microphone.

The radiographer begins by positioning you on the CT examination table, usually lying flat on your back. Straps and pillows may be used to help you maintain the correct position and to help you remain still during the exam.

If contrast material is used, depending on the type of exam, it will either be swallowed or injected through an intravenous line (IV).

Next, the table will move quickly through the scanner to determine the correct starting position for the scans. Then, the table will move slowly through the machine as the actual CT scanning is performed. Depending on the type of CT scan, the machine may make several passes.

You may be asked to hold your breath during the scanning. Any motion, whether breathing or body movements, can lead to poor images resembling the blurring seen on a photograph taken of a moving object.

Will I feel any pain?

CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that you need to lie still is reduced.

Though the scanning itself causes no pain, there may be some discomfort from having to remain still for several minutes and with placement of an IV.

If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You will likely have a warm, flushed sensation during the injection of the contrast materials and a metallic taste in your mouth that lasts for at most a minute or two. You may experience a sensation like you have to urinate; however, this is a contrast effect and subsides quickly.

How long will the CT Scan take?

This depends on which part of your body is being scanned and the information your referrer needs. Scans can take between 20 – 45 minutes. If you require intravenous contrast injection this usually lasts only 10 – 30 seconds.

You should allow at least one hour for your appointment. We try to avoid delays, however, please allow extra time in case of delays on the day of your appointment.

When will I get the results?

The results will be sent to the doctor or other professional who referred you for the scan.

Your CT pictures will be studied by a radiologist and the results will be sent to the doctor who referred you for the scan. They will discuss the results with you and any treatment you may need. Follow-up examinations may be necessary. Your doctor will explain the exact reason why another exam is requested. Sometimes a follow-up exam is done because a potential abnormality needs further evaluation using additional imaging or a special imaging technique. A follow-up examination may also be necessary so that any change in a known abnormality can be monitored over time. Follow-up examinations are sometimes the best way to assess if treatment is working or if a previous finding is stable or has changed over time.

Unfortunately the results will not be given to you immediately. If you are an out-patient, please allow four weeks for the results to be sent to your referring doctor. If you are staying in hospital the results will be given to the doctors looking after you on the ward.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions or concerns about coming for your CT Scan, please contact radiology CT Appointments on either 02837562017 / 02837562425 / 02837562018 typically Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm.

Your comments and concerns

You can make your comment, suggestion or compliment in the way that best suits you. This can be face to face, on the telephone, in a letter or by email.

Corporate Complaints Office Beechfield House Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road Portadown BT63 5QQ

Tel: 028 37564600

Email: complaints@southerntrust.hscni.net

Involving you

The Southern Trust radiology wishes to involve the public in the planning, development and evaluation of its services, irrespective of their learning, skills, knowledge and experience. If you would like to register your contact details specifically for radiology, please contact our department 028 37564420 / 028 37564324 / 02837563807. In doing so we may contact you for telephone surveys and any future face to face activities.

This section explains more about having an Ultrasound examination including the benefits, risks and any alternatives. It also provides information on what you can expect when you come to hospital. If you have any further questions, please speak to the health care professional/s caring for you.

What is an Ultrasound examination?

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the area of examination. A small handheld probe is placed onto your skin, and moved over the part of the body being examined. Lubricating gel is put onto your skin to allow the probe to move smoothly. This is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the organs and soft tissues of the body. The ultrasound is carried out by either a sonographer or radiologist, both are trained professionals in this type of scan.

Why should I have an Ultrasound examination?

An ultrasound examination can give information that leads to, or helps make a diagnosis about your medical condition. Ultrasound can also be used to monitor an existing condition. It will be your doctor, or sometimes a nurse, who decides that you might benefit from having an ultrasound examination.

What are the risks?

Ultrasound is a very safe procedure for all patients undergoing a diagnostic test. The operator will scan for as long as is necessary to provide the required information within all technical limits. This type of scan will not have any known side effects.

Are there any alternatives?

Depending on your signs and symptoms, there may be alternative tests available including a CT or MRI scan. If there is a more suitable examination the department will contact your referring professional to inform them.

How can I prepare for an Ultrasound examination?

If any preparation is required, this information will be provided at the time of booking your appointment or in your appointment letter. This may include a brief period of fasting, drinking some water or having an empty bladder. Any medication can still be taken with water prior to your scan.

Giving my consent (permission)

We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment.

The sonographer/radiologist will ask you if you are happy for the scan to go ahead. This is called verbal consent. If you do not wish to have the scan or are undecided, please tell the sonographer/radiologist. It is your decision and you can change your mind at any time. Please bear in mind that not having the scan may delay your diagnosis. If you wish to have a chaperone present during your scan, please alert a health care professional before the scan begins. You are welcome to bring a friend or family member to be present throughout the scan if you wish. Students/trainees may be present during the examination but only with your verbal consent. Please remember that you can ask the sonographer/radiologist any questions you have at any time before, during or after your scan. If you would like more information about our consent process, please speak to a member of staff caring for you.

What happens during an ultrasound examination?

You will be asked to remove your clothes covering the area for examination and to lie on the examination couch, or for some examinations, sit on a chair. Here, you will have water based clear gel applied to the skin in the area of examination. The sonographer/radiologist will slowly move the probe over the area while viewing the images produced on the monitor. The lights in the room will be dimmed so that the pictures on the screen can be seen more clearly and records of selected images will be made so that they can be viewed later.

Once the examination is over, the gel will be wiped off and you will be free to dress.

Will I feel any pain?

You cannot feel ultrasound, however, it is important for the sonographer/radiologist to examine you in the correct position and to gently press down on the probe to get a good view. For some people this may be uncomfortable. If you do feel uncomfortable please inform the sonographer/radiologist, so that suitable adjustments can be made.

How long will the ultrasound examination take?

This depends on which part of your body is being scanned and the information your referrer needs. Scans can take between 10 – 30 minutes. Occasionally, a second opinion is required which can increase the exam time. You should allow at least one hour in the ultrasound department. We try to avoid delays, however, please allow extra time in case of delays on the day of your appointment.

When will I get the results?

The results will be sent to the doctor or other professional who referred you for the scan.

The sonographer will tell you how to get your results and how long it will take, as this may be different for each patient. You may already have an appointment with the doctor or clinic that referred you. If not please contact them to arrange a time to talk about the results and any treatment you may need.

If you are staying in hospital, the results will be given to the doctors looking after you on the ward.

Unfortunately it may not be possible for you to receive the results at the time of your scan.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions or concerns about coming for your Ultrasound examination please contact ultrasound appointments on 02837563798 / 02837563799 / 02837563805 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).

Your comments and concerns

You can make your comment, suggestion or compliment in the way that best suits you. This can be face to face, on the telephone, in a letter or by email.

Corporate Complaints Office Beechfield House Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road Portadown BT63 5QQ

Tel: 028 3756 4600

Email: complaints@southerntrust.hscni.net

Involving you

The Southern Trust radiology wishes to involve the public in the planning, development and evaluation of its services, irrespective of their learning, skills, knowledge and experience. If you would like to register your contact details specifically for radiology, please contact our department 028 37564420 / 028 37564324 / 02837563807. In doing so we may contact you for telephone surveys and any future face to face activities.

This section explains more about having an MRI Scan, including the benefits, risks and any alternatives. It also provides information on what you can expect when you come to hospital. If you have any further questions, please speak to the health care professional/s caring for you.

What is an MRI Scan?

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. An MRI scan uses a combination of a strong magnet and radio frequency waves to produce detailed pictures of the inside of your body.

Why should I have an MRI Scan?

An MRI scan can help to find out what is causing your problem and help your doctor to find the best treatment for you. An MRI scan provides much more detailed pictures of your body than an ordinary X-ray. It is particularly good at identifying problems in the spine, the brain and in the joints. It is also helpful for looking at other parts of the body, often when other types of scan have not given a full picture. Unlike X-rays and CT (computerised tomography) scans, MRI scans do not use ionising radiation.

What are the risks?

MRI is a very safe procedure for most patients. However due to the very powerful magnetic field, patients with heart pacemakers and certain other surgical implants, for example a cochlear implant, cannot be scanned.

You will therefore be asked to complete and sign a safety questionnaire before your scan to make sure it is safe for you to be scanned.

Can I have an MRI scan if I am pregnant?

National safety guidelines recommend that we do not perform this type of scan on those who are pregnant unless the scan is clinically urgent. During your pregnancy the doctor who refers you for the scan, along with the radiologist (doctor who uses X-rays and scans to diagnose and treat illnesses) will decide whether they believe your scan is necessary. Many pregnant patients have had MRI scans worldwide, with no reported problems. If you have been referred for an MRI scan when you are pregnant and would like further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Are there any alternatives?

If you cannot have a scan, for example if you have a pacemaker, the radiologist may suggest an alternative type of imaging. This could be a CT scan or an ultrasound scan.

How can I prepare for an MRI scan?

• If any preparation is required, this information will be provided at the time of booking your appointment or in your appointment letter. This may include a brief period of fasting. Any medication you are taking can still be taken with water prior to your scan.
• Please read carefully the Patient Safety Questionnaire and notify the MRI Department if you have answered ‘YES’ to any of the questions. Failure to do this may mean we are unable to carry out your scan on the appointed date.
• Wear metal free clothes where possible.
• Please do not wear make-up, hair gel or lacquer, as these may produce artefacts on your images.
• You may wish to bring a CD, mobile phone or similar type of device so that you can listen to something during the scan.
• Children may bring a DVD to watch during their scan.

Additional resources to prepare for my MRI scan:

A Virtual reality App is now available for free on the Apple and Android App stores. This App is very useful for children attending for an MRI and also for anxious or claustrophobic patients. Search for virtual reality MRI or use the following links:

Apple – https://appsto.re/gb/Lvwslb.i

Android – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.belfasttrust.vrmri&hl=en_GB

Giving my consent (permission)

We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment.

The radiographer (member of the radiology team trained to carry out scans) will ask you if you are happy for the scan to go ahead. This is called verbal consent and may only involve the radiographer checking you are booked for the correct scan. If you do not wish to have the scan or are undecided, please tell the radiographer. It is your decision and you can change your mind at any time. Please bear in mind that not having the scan may delay your diagnosis as the doctors may not have all of the information that they need. Please remember that you can ask the radiographer any questions you have at any time before, during or after your scan.

Students/trainees may be present during the examination but only with your verbal consent.

If you would like more information about our consent process, please speak to a member of staff caring for you.

What happens during an MRI scan?

Before the scan, you will be given the opportunity to ask the radiographer any questions you have. We will ask you to lie on the scan table in the position required for your scan where you will be made as comfortable as possible. If this is not comfortable, please tell us, as you will need to keep very still during the scan. It is important that you do not move, or the pictures could be blurred and the scan will have to be repeated.

Once you are positioned correctly, we will move you into the scanner – the part of your body that we are scanning must be in the centre of the machine. For scans of the chest or abdomen, you may be asked to hold your breath for a short while.

When the scanner is working, it makes “clunking” or “buzzing” noises. Although they can be very loud please do not worry because these are normal. We will give you headphones and earplugs to wear to reduce the noise. You can listen to music while you are being scanned – so please bring in a CD of your choice! You will be given a buzzer to squeeze if at any time you need to stop the scan for any reason or to attract our attention during the scan.

The radiographers can see you at all times through a window in their “control” room and via CCTV. The inside of the scanner has good lighting and is well ventilated.

Will I need an injection?

If we are scanning certain areas of your body, we may need to give you an injection of contrast dye. The dye shows up on the scan and gives us more detailed pictures, particularly of your blood vessels. The injection will be given by inserting a small needle into a vein in your arm or your hand.

The contrast dye contains gadolinium, which may, occasionally, cause allergic reactions. The most common allergic reactions can present as headaches, nausea and vomiting, sneezing, wheezing, runny nose, eye irritation, itching, hives, skin rash, swelling of the face, mouth, hands, feet or throat, difficulty in breathing, and low blood pressure.

Before your scan we will check whether you have had any previous allergies. If you would like more information about the injection, please ask the radiographer before your scan.

What do I need to wear?

We may ask you to change into a hospital gown if any metal fastenings, such as zips or hooks and eyes, on your clothes are close to the area we are going to scan. This is because the fastenings may spoil the pictures.

You will need to empty your pockets of any coins, as these may be pulled out by the magnet and fly off into the scanner. You will need to take off your watch and take any credit cards or travel cards with magnetic strips out of your pockets. The scanner can affect these and stop them from working.

If we are scanning your head, you will need to remove any dentures that contain metal. Dental fillings will not affect the scan. Hairclips and wigs must also be removed if they contain metal.

A locker will be provided for you to keep your belongings in during your scan.

Will I feel anything?

No, the scan should be completely painless. The most difficult part is keeping still. Make sure you are as comfortable as possible before we start and try to relax. The scanner is a short tunnel, so if you get claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces) please let us know before you come for your scan.

Will there be anyone with me during the scan?

The radiographer will talk to you during the scan to let you know what is happening. If you are particularly anxious, a friend or relative can stay in the room during the scan provided they are not pregnant or do not have any medical implants which would prevent them from entering the scan room.

Can I bring my children?

Unfortunately, we are not able to offer childcare facilities and your children cannot go into the scan room with you. If you need to bring your children with you, please bring along an adult who can look after them while you are having the examination.

How long will the MRI scan take?

This depends on which part of your body is being scanned and the information that your doctor needs. The radiographer will tell you how long he/she expects your scan to take. Most scans take between 30 – 40 minutes.

What happens afterwards?

As soon as the scan is finished, you can go home, or back to your ward if you are staying in the hospital. You can eat and drink as normal and resume your usual activities. The pictures taken during the scan are carefully studied by the radiologist who will produce a detailed report.

If you had the injection of contrast dye, an allergic reaction can very rarely occur up to two days after the scan (please read “Will I need an injection?” section on page 3 for allergic reactions that you should look out for). If this happens, please contact the MRI department where you had your scan for advice. Alternatively, if it is out of hours, contact your local emergency department.

When will I get the results?

The results will be sent to the doctor other professional who referred you for the scan.

Your MRI pictures will be studied by a radiologist and the results will be sent to the doctor who referred you for the scan. They will discuss the results with you and any treatment you may need.

If you are an out-patient please allow 4 weeks for the results to be sent to your referring doctor. If you are staying in hospital the results will be given to the doctors looking after you on the ward. Unfortunately it will not be possible for you to receive the results at the time of your scan.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions or concerns about coming for your MRI scan please contact MRI appointments on 02837563795 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm). Alternatively you may contact us by email on mri.cah@southerntrust.hscni.net .

Your comments and concerns

You can make your comment, suggestion or compliment in the way that best suits you. This can be face to face, on the telephone, in a letter or by email.

Corporate Complaints Office Beechfield House Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road Portadown BT63 5QQ

Tel: 028 3756 4600

Email: complaints@southerntrust.hscni.net

Involving you

The Southern Trust radiology wishes to involve the public in the planning, development and evaluation of its services, irrespective of their learning, skills, knowledge and experience. If you would like to register your contact details specifically for radiology, please contact our department 028 37564420 / 028 37564324 / 02837563807. In doing so we may contact you for telephone surveys and any future face to face activities.

This section explains more about having a nuclear medicine examination including the benefits, risks and any alternatives. It also provides information on what you can expect when you come to hospital. If you have any further questions, please speak to the health care professional/s caring for you.

What is a nuclear medicine examination?

Nuclear medicine scans are used to show how particular organs or tissues are working. A small injection of radioactivity is given to you before the scan. This injection gives off radiation which enables scan pictures to be taken using a machine called a ‘gamma camera’. These pictures will give your doctor more information about your condition.

What is radiation?

Radiation is a form of energy which occurs widely in nature and can also be man-made. We are all exposed to naturally-occurring sources of radiation in our day-to-day lives, such as radioactivity from buildings, rocks and soil or cosmic radiation during an aeroplane trip.

In nuclear medicine, we use man-made radioactivity to help diagnose illnesses. The injected radioactivity will disappear from your body quite rapidly; most of it will have gone a few hours after the scan.

What are the risks?

The amount of radiation that you receive is small, similar to that of some X-ray examinations and typically smaller than you would receive from natural background radiation over one to two years. The expected benefits of the scan outweigh any possible radiation risks. The radiographers in nuclear medicine are highly trained to keep your radiation dose to a minimum.

Are there any alternatives?

Depending on your signs and symptoms, there may be alternative tests available including a CT or MRI scan. If there is a more suitable examination the department will contact your referring professional to inform them.

How can I prepare for a nuclear medicine examination?

Usually there is no preparation for any of the scans, and in most cases you can drink and eat normally. However for some scans, there is preparation to follow, so please check the appointment letter carefully for specific instructions.

You can carry on taking your usual tablets and medications, unless specifically instructed to stop them in the appointment letter.

You may be required to remove belts, shoes and jewellery for some scans, and for others you may have to completely undress and put on a hospital gown.

What if I might be pregnant?

It is very important that you inform us if you are, or think that you may be pregnant before the injection for your scan. It may be necessary to delay your appointment if you are unsure.

What if I am breast feeding?

Some of our radioactive substances will end up in your breast milk, so it is important that you contact us in advance. We can advise you on what precautions to take after the scan.

Giving my consent (permission)

We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment. The radiographer will ask you if you are happy for the injection of the radioactive material to go ahead. This is called verbal consent. If you do not wish to have the injection or are undecided, please tell the radiographer. It is your decision and you can change your mind at any time. Please bear in mind that not having the injection and scan may delay your diagnosis. Students/trainees may be present during the examination but only with your verbal consent. Please remember that you can ask the radiographer any questions you have at any time before, during or after your scan. If you would like more information about our consent process, please speak to a member of staff caring for you.

What happens during a nuclear medicine examination?

When you arrive for your appointment, an injection will be given, usually through a vein in your arm. This is similar to having a blood test, and only lasts a short time. You will not feel different after the injection; it will not make you sleepy or affect your driving. Depending on the type of scan that you are having, you may need to wait for a few hours for the injection to be absorbed by your body, before the scan pictures can be taken.

Nuclear medicine examinations are time-consuming. The radioactive material is specially pre-ordered for you from outside the hospital the day before. For this reason it is important that you let us know as soon as possible if you are unable to attend your appointment.

The radiographer will take pictures with a machine called a ‘gamma camera’. You will either be sitting on a chair or lying on a bed with the camera close by.

Will I feel any pain?

You should not feel any different during the examination except for the short injection that you will receive in preparation for your pictures.

Can I bring my friends and family?

You may bring a companion with you, but please do not bring any children or pregnant women.

How long will the nuclear medicine examination take?

The scan may take from 20 minutes to 3 hours.

Where do I wait?

Depending on the type of scan that you are having, you may have to wait for a couple of hours before we are able to perform the scan. If you are mobile, you may be able to leave the department for a time, or you can wait in the waiting room. There is a television, free trust Wi-Fi and a trolley if you need to lie down.

What happens at the end of the examination?

Following your scan, you can go home or go back to work (provided it will not be affected by the radiation you are giving out e.g. photographer)

For the first 24 hours, we will ask you to

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Flush the toilet twice after use, and remember to wash your hands
• Avoid prolonged close contact with babies and small children
• Avoid giving any samples of tissue, blood or urine for other tests

When will I get the results?

After you leave the department, the nuclear medicine doctor will write a report on your scan. The doctor who referred you for the scan will then receive the report and discuss it with you. Unfortunately it will not be possible for you to receive the results at the time of your scan.

CONTACT US

If you have any questions or concerns about coming for your Nuclear Medicine examination please contact Nuclear Medicine appointments on 02837560729 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)

Your comments and concerns

You can make your comment, suggestion or compliment in the way that best suits you. This can be face to face, on the telephone, in a letter or by email.

Corporate Complaints Office Beechfield House Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road Portadown BT63 5QQ

Tel: 028 3756 4600

Email: complaints@southerntrust.hscni.net

Involving you

The Southern Trust radiology wishes to involve the public in the planning, development and evaluation of its services, irrespective of their learning, skills, knowledge and experience. If you would like to register your contact details specifically for radiology, please contact our department 028 37564420 / 028 37564324 / 02837563807. In doing so we may contact you for telephone surveys and any future face to face activities.

This section explains more about having a Bone Density Scan, including the benefits, risks and any alternatives. It also provides information on what you can expect when you come to hospital. If you have any further questions, please speak to the health care professional/s caring for you.

What is a bone density scan?

A bone density scan – sometimes called DEXA or DXA uses low dose X-rays to measure your bone mineral density. It is used to help understand how strong your bones are and how likely you are to have a fragility fracture. A DXA scanner usually scans bones in the lower spine, hip and occasionally the forearm is used.

What must I do in preparation?

We advise you to avoid wearing clothing containing metal. Items to avoid wearing include underwire bras or hooks, girdles or corsets, metallic buttons, jeans/trousers with zips or studs. We suggest you wear clothing such as jogging bottoms or similar and t-shirt. Alternatively we can provide you with a gown to change into during your appointment.

If you require a hoist or if there is any possibility you may be pregnant, please contact the appointments department before you attend for the scan on 028 3756 2017.

What happens when I arrive?

When you arrive please book in at the X-ray Department. This is located next to the Hospital Minor Injury Unit Entrance. You will then be directed to the Bone Density / Scanning Suite. A Radiographer will call you into the scanning room as soon as it is ready for you.

What is involved?

A DXA scan will take between 10 – 20 minutes. The scanner is quite open – you don’t go into a ‘tunnel’ or need an injection. A Radiographer will perform your scan and will be present in the room during it. Before the scan starts your height and weight will be measured in order for the computer to accurately calculate your bone density. You will then be asked to lie on your back with your legs supported on a large cushion while a scanning arm passes over taking measurement of your lower spine. For the hip part of the scan, your leg will be supported to keep it in the correct position. After the scan has been performed you will be free to go home.

How do I get the results?

If you were sent by your GP or hospital specialist, you will not be given the results of your DXA scan before you go home because they take a little time to interpret. Instead the results will be sent to your GP or hospital specialist. This usually takes about 2 – 3 weeks but sometimes this can take a little longer. If you were referred via the Fracture Liaison Service, you will usually be seen by a Fracture Liaison Nurse Practitioner immediately after your scan in the Outpatients Department.

Should I have further scans in the future to monitor my progress?

It depends on your situation. It is rarely useful to have a scan performed more than every 2 – 3 years because the results are not always accurate or significant until then.

If you have any questions?

Please do not hesitate to ask any questions either before, during or after the examination. You can ask a member of staff or call us on the following telephone number:

Appointment Queries 028 3756 2017

Further information is available from the National Osteoporosis website: www.nos.org.uk

Your comments and concerns

You can make your comment, suggestion or compliment in the way that best suits you. This can be face to face, on the telephone, in a letter or by email.

Corporate Complaints Office Beechfield House Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road Portadown BT63 5QQ

Tel: 028 3756 4600

Email: complaints@southerntrust.hscni.net

Involving you

The Southern Trust radiology wishes to involve the public in the planning, development and evaluation of its services, irrespective of their learning, skills, knowledge and experience. If you would like to register your contact details specifically for radiology, please contact our department 028 37564420 / 028 37564324 / 02837563807. In doing so we may contact you for telephone surveys and any future face to face activities.

This section explains more about NIPACS and how radiology handle your information to assist in your diagnosis. If you have any further questions, please speak to the health care professional/s caring for you.

What is NIPACS?

NIPACS is the regional radiology solution encompassing all hospital sites in Northern Ireland with the exception of the Royal Victoria Hospital and Belfast City Hospital.

The objective of using NIPACS:

• To support better clinical care and treatment and improved patient and user experience and health outcomes, through the more extensive and effective use of health technology and information and communication technologies.

There are three components to NIPACS:

1. Radiology Information System (RIS)
2. Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS)
3. Electronic Referral either through Sectra Order Management or the Electronic Care Record. This referral can be performed by Doctors, Dentists, GPs and Non-medical referrers.

What is RIS?

Is a networked system for managing your medical imaging and associated data. It is used by us to:

• Track your imaging request and your pathway through the imaging process from start to finish
• Scheduling your appointments
• Printing your reports so they can be dispatched to the They are also sent electronically

What is PACS?

PACS is the electronic system used for the storage and distribution of your images and their related information at the point of need.

PACS is used with speech recognition to report your images. Radiologists and advanced radiographers insert reports into the system upon reviewing of your images.

What is an Electronic Referral?

• Previously, all of the referrals into Radiology were in paper format
• Now NIPACS has meant that we are moving away from paper to electronic referrals
• This method eliminates the risk of losing the paper referral and or misreading handwriting
• Currently, we are trying to achieve 100% electronic referrals from the acute and primary settings

The Advantages of NIPACS

• Images are stored electronically and viewed either on reporting workstations or on Trust PCs in wards and clinics throughout Northern Ireland
• Access to the system is not limited to radiology. It provides support to hospital clinicians, enabling them to access the right image at the right time in the right place
• Flexible viewing provides the ability to view images almost simultaneously
• Multiple images can be manipulated on the screen simultaneously

About Your Information

Within radiology, we hold information about your images and maintain a record of your medical imaging history. The personal information that we process about you is governed by Data Protection Legislation.

What information is contained within NIPACS?

We only collect the information we need to. This will include your name, address, date of birth, contact details and your medical imaging history including images and reports. Your details are fed to our electronic system from the Health and Care Number database. Your medical imaging history is generated (previous images and reports) when the radiology department receives a referral.

What we do with your information?

We use this information to provide reports so that your referrer can manage your symptoms most effectively.

Other reasons your information may be used include:

• Helping to review your care to ensure it is the highest standard. This is done through internal audits of our standards or external inspections of our services
• Training and educating staff
• Investigating complaints or legal claims
• Preparing statistics on the Trust’s activity and performance

Who will we share your information with?

To ensure timely reporting of your examination it may be necessary for it to be reported by a third party. This is especially relevant to CT examinations performed on an out of hours basis. This is necessary so that all examinations are reported more efficiently and reduce any delay in making decisions that affect your healthcare. We only do this if it is required in your interests.

If your examination is reported by a third party, your information is shared securely.  Third party companies may be located across the world, however your information is governed by strict protocols to ensure your data is safe.

Will my information be shared elsewhere without my consent?

There may be occasions where your information can be shared with other organisations without your consent but this will only happen when it is:

• Required by law
• Required by court order
• Necessary to detect or prevent crime
• Required for monitoring certain health conditions, g. The Public Health Agency (PHA)

How will it affect you if you do not want to provide information

It is important to remember that the purpose of using your information is to provide you with safe, fast and effective care. Not providing information may have a significant effect or delay on us ensuring your examination is reported. This is especially important in an urgent or out of hour’s situation.

Security of your information

We take your privacy very seriously within Radiology. Staff only access your information on a strict ‘need to know’ basis or when they are directly involved in your examination. All staff have a legal duty to keep your information safe and confidential, as do other parties discussed in this information. We have a range of measures and strict standards to protect electronic information. Your information is sent through a secure N3 connection to third party companies. All details sent are transmitted using Encrypted Emails.

We may transfer your data to other countries outside the European Union (EU) for reporting. The information is transferred securely in a way that safeguards it during and after transfer to the country receiving it.

How long will your information be retained for?

We will retain your information in line with Good Management Good Records (GMGR) guidance issued by the Department of Health in Northern Ireland. The length of time we keep your information for will depend on the types of records created for your imaging record.

How do I see my information?

You have a right under the legislation to obtain a copy of your information. This is managed through the Governance office, telephone 028 3883 3357

Your comments and concerns

You can make your comment, suggestion or compliment in the way that best suits you. This can be face to face, on the telephone, in a letter or by email.

Corporate Complaints Office Beechfield House Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road Portadown BT63 5QQ

Tel: 028 3756 4600

Email: complaints@southerntrust.hscni.net

Involving you

The Southern Trust radiology wishes to involve the public in the planning, development and evaluation of its services, irrespective of their learning, skills, knowledge and experience. If you would like to register your contact details specifically for radiology, please contact our department 028 37564420 / 028 37564324 / 02837563807. In doing so we may contact you for telephone surveys and any future face to face activities.