Radiology

Radiology is a branch of medicine that uses specialised imaging techniques to provide diagnosis and treatment options.

Radiology services, also known as diagnostic imaging, use a range of medical imaging techniques to visualise internal body structures, to support treatment.

About our service

The radiology department operates from several locations across the hospital grounds and offers a wide range of diagnostic investigations.

The radiology services at Stepping Hill Hospital include the following:

• Emergency Radiography – diagnostic services provided for the emergency department.
• CT scanning – Imaging technique that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional images of inside the body.
• MR scanning – Imaging technique that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to created detailed images of inside the body.
• General radiography – Imaging technique that uses x-ray to create images on the internal structures i.e. bones, lungs etc.
• Radionuclide imagine (Nuclear Medicine) – A medical speciality that utilises radioactive substances to diagnose and treat diseases.
• Ultrasound scanning – Imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves to create images of the internal body structures.
• Interventional Radiology – A medical specialty that uses imaging guidance to perform minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis or treatment.
• Fluoroscopy – A medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to visualize moving internal organs in real time.
• Dexa Scanning – Bone density scan, uses low dose x-rays to measure bone density, helping diagnose osteoporosis and assess fracture risk.

How to use the service – coming to the department

GP and Outpatient x-ray services

We run a `drop-in service’ for plain film GP and outpatient clinic patients from 8.00am to 5:00pm. It is important to note that we are an emergency service; and as such you may not always be seen immediately due to clinically urgent patients requiring urgent imaging.

For all other Diagnostic services you will receive an appointment letter prior to needing to attend.

Your referring doctor will be able to explain the examination to you and information regarding your examination.

All other Radiology services are by appointment only

You will receive an appointment letter which will include information regarding your examination. If you have any queries regarding your examination, you should contact the department on the number shown in the letter.

Expertise

The Radiology Department has a variety of highly skilled and experienced staff including Consultant Radiologists, Advanced Practitioners, Radiographers, Specialist Nurses, Assistant Practitioners, Radiology Assistants, clerical staff and porters who provide an efficient, effective and safe service that is convenient for patients.

New state-of-the-art technology is continually being introduced. Over the past few years, we have replaced our analogue X-ray equipment with digital imaging equipment which has enhanced the quality of imaging produced and assisted with patient flow.

We also operate a Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) a digital archiving solution which allows all radiological images to be stored digitally, eliminating the need to store X-ray film and allows clinicians to view the images at any location in the hospital. 

Our equipment also includes state of the art X-ray, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy, CT and MR scanning equipment.