X-ray examination procedure

The aim of this leaflet is to provide the patient with information about X-ray examinations and how to prepare for them.

X-ray examinations are performed only on the basis of a doctor’s referral.

The nature of the X-rays

X-rays, which are one of the types of ionizing radiation, are used for X-ray examinations.

An X-ray examination results in a digital image from which the radiologist and/or attending physician receives the necessary information for the diagnosis and further treatment of the disease.

Contraindications for an X-ray examination

There are no contraindications for an X-ray examination. X-ray examinations may also be carried out during pregnancy if there is an emergency medical indication. Depending on the area studied, the fetus may be protected by a lead apron.

Children are more sensitive to the effects of X-rays and therefore, when performing examinations to them, parameters are altered on the X-ray machine to minimize the amount of radiation used.

Preparing for the study

At the time of the x-ray, if necessary, you will be asked to undress, remove metal objects (eg. bracelets, earrings, hair clips) and glasses. It is recommended to come to the study without wearing jewellery. To take the x-ray, the radiology technician will put you in the required position. If necessary, you may be asked to hold your breath for a moment while taking the exposure, so that the area of the body being examined does not move and the quality of the therefore better. Sometimes the position may be uncomfortable for you, but it may be necessary to get an image from the correct angle.

What is a contrast agent and how might it affect you?

In order to better distinguish organs from one another, it is sometimes necessary to inject an X-ray contrast agent into a vein. To do this, a venous cannula is placed in your arm. When injecting a contrast agent, you will experience a feeling of warmth in your stomach and a metallic taste in your mouth. X-ray contrast agents may rarely cause hypersensitivity reactions: rash, itching, nausea, dizziness or, in very rare cases, difficulty breathing. If you are hypersensitive to contrast agents, iodine or any other medicines, you should inform your doctor and radiology technician before the examination.

Results of the study

Your doctor will provide you with the results of the X-ray examination. If you wish to receive the results of the X-ray examination on an information carrier, you will have to pay for it separately. The price of the service is indicated in the price list for paid services of East Tallinn Central Hospital (https://www.itk.ee/for the patient/price list for paid services#1726) .

Additional information

X-ray examinations are carried out on a first come, first served basis at the Ravi and Magdaleena unit. More information on our website: https://www.itk.ee/for patients/clinics/diagnostic clinic/radiology centre

If you have any questions about the study, please contact the Radiological Examinations Hotline. It is not possible to register for an examination or obtain information about the results of an examination through the helpline.

 The hotline is operational on weekdays from 8.00–16.00:

• telephone: 666 5166

• e-mail: radioloogiainfo [at] itk.ee (radioloogiainfo[at]itk[dot]ee)

ITK931

Approved by the decision of the Care Quality Commission of Aktsiaselts Ida-Tallinna Keskhaigla on 30.10.2024 (protocol no. 14-24)