Diagnostic Imaging at Burnside Hospital

Diagnostic imaging includes modalities such as ultrasound, CT, X-ray, fluoroscopy and MRI. Some forms of diagnostic imaging use ionizing radiation to generate images; these are CT, fluoroscopy and radiography (X-ray).

Within Burnside Hospital’s perioperative departments, ultrasound, fluoroscopy and X-ray are utilised to guide treatment and to confirm the correct placement of implanted devices. X-ray may also be performed in other clinical settings (e.g. HDU) or patients may be required to attend Jones Radiology for diagnostic imaging.

All x-rays involve exposure to radiation. The types of imaging utilised at Burnside Hospital generate a very low amount of radiation, with the dose being kept as low as possible. Everyone is exposed to radiation from natural sources every day. The low doses of radiation used in medical imaging mean the risk associated with exposure is so small that it can’t be reliably measured. When an x-ray is medically advised to investigate health problems or to guide surgical treatment, the medical benefits are believed to far outweigh the theoretical risks from radiation.

Pregnant women are encouraged to minimise exposure to radiation unless it is deemed necessary. It is important to tell our staff if there is any chance you may be pregnant when you are admitted to hospital.

If you have any questions or concerns, you may wish to discuss these with your surgeon or the nursing staff.