X-ray Services
What is an X-ray?
X-ray is usually use to examine different parts of the body such as chest, pelvis, bone and abdomen for injuries, infection or abnormalities. It is a common type of medical imaging that produces images of the structures inside your body as X-ray beams penetrates through it. Dense materials, such as bone and metal, will appear as white on X-rays while Soft materials such as fat and muscle will show up as darker images on the film.
Common use of X-ray
Generally, X-Rays are the easiest and fastest way to check for any broken bones/joint, injuries to the spine, infections, abnormal bone growths, foreign objections in tissues/around bones, and sports injuries. X-rays can also be used to determine lung infections such as TB and pneumonia.
X-rays are also an required item as part of certain Statutory Medical Examinations, and for Work Pass applications. The Ministry of Manpower, for example, requires that all work permit applicants go through an x-ray screening to check for any signs of tuberculosis.
Types of X-ray available
Some of the more common x-ray services include:
- Body
- Skull
- Spine
- Lower Extremities
- Upper Extremities
Items to bring?
- Any referral form,
- NRIC/Work Permit/Passport
- Any prior X-ray films or X-ray reports
X-ray Preparation
No special preparation needed for general x-ray screening
Procedure
Taking an x-ray is fast, painless, and fuss-free.
Depending on the area of your body which will be exposed to the x-ray, you may be requested to remove your clothings and put on our hospital gown. All our x-ray rooms have an changing area, for your convenience.
The radiographer will assist you in getting into the proper position for the imaging process. This may involve lying down on the x-ray table, or sitting on a chair beside the table.
If you are taking a chest x-ray, you will be required to take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds.
The entire process will be completed within 5 minutes.
FAQ X-ray
Is x-ray painful?
Ans: X-ray is not painful, however you may be asked to hold your body in certain positions which may cause some discomfort while the image is being taken.
Is x-ray harmful?
Ans: Generally, the amount of radiation you are exposed to during an X-ray is low. The risk of getting cancer after being exposed to x-ray is considered to be very small too.
Can I do x-ray if I am pregnant?
Ans: Please inform your doctor that you are pregnant before doing an x-ray as unborn baby are more easily affected by radiation than an adult. Your doctor may consider using another imaging test such as ultrasound instead.
Are x-ray services available at night?
Ans: Yes, x-ray services are available at night at certain AcuMed clinics. This makes it easy and convenient for you to take an x-ray after work, especially for the purposes of screenings, examinations and check-ups.
X-ray facilities and services are available in our following clinics: Bedok, Jurong Point, Teban Garden, Taman Jurong, Tuas Amenity Centre.