Pelvis X-ray

A pelvis x-ray looks at the structures of the pelvic area. The pelvis is made up of three bones called the ilium, ischium, and pubis bones.
A pelvic x-ray can be useful to:

• Identify fractures after a traumatic event such as a car accident,
• Identify arthritis of the hip,
• Sacroilitis - inflamation of the join of the sacrum and ilium,
• Ankylosing spondylitis - stiffness of sacroilliac joint or spine,
• Diagnosing tumours.

It is important to inform a member of staff as soon as possible if you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant BEFORE the test is performed. The examination may not be appropriate or special considerations or precautions might need to be taken.

You will be lying on the x-ray examination table and the x-ray machine will be positioned over your pelvic region. A few different views may need to be taken in order to review all aspects of the pelvis. It is extremely important to remain still during the pictures to ensure your pictures are clear.

For safety reasons there cannot be anyone in the room during the x-ray and relatives must wait outside. A staff member will be behind the glass window a short distance away watching the patient at all times during the scan should there be any concerns.