Our radiology service is a pioneer of innovation and excellence in the field of medical imaging. 

A world-class facility, the service provides advanced and comprehensive diagnostic services to the community. 

The service works across the Royal Free Hospital, Barnet Hospital and Chase Farm Hospital, providing easy accessibility and convenience for all our patients. 

It provides precise and timely diagnostic information, and works to ensure every patient’s visit is comfortable, that they are fully informed, and that they receive unparalleled expertise.

Below are the individual services within radiology, and what they mean.

For contact information, click here.

An X-ray is a quick and non-invasive procedure that captures images of the internal structures of the body, aiding in the diagnosis of various bone and joint ailments. 

This technology relies on a controlled source of X-rays, with the images displayed on a digital sensor and computer screen.

Ultrasound is a painless and non-invasive procedure that utilises high-frequency sound waves to create images of the internal structures of the body. 

This technique is used extensively in monitoring pregnancies and diagnosing conditions involving organs such as the liver, kidneys and blood vessels.

A CT scan is a quick procedure that offers detailed two-dimensional or three-dimensional images of the body, helping in the precise diagnosis and management of diseases. 

It sometimes requires the use of contrast (X-ray dye) to enhance image quality.

MRI scans use powerful magnets and radiowaves to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the body, providing insights often not available from other techniques. 

This safe procedure can take longer than conventional X-rays or CT scans, and might not be suitable for people with certain medical devices such as pacemakers.

A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is a specialised X-ray procedure that measures bone mineral density, aiding in the diagnosis of osteoporosis and assisting in the planning of appropriate healthcare routines. 

It is an essential tool in assessing the risk of osteoporosis, particularly in women aged over 50 and men aged over 60.

Nuclear medicine  is a specialised area in healthcare that uses radioactive tracers, or radiopharmaceuticals, to evaluate how different parts of the body are functioning. 

This method is instrumental in both diagnosing various diseases and guiding the right treatment plans, by providing clear images of bodily processes at a molecular level.

Fluoroscopy takes moving pictures of the internal structures of the body using a series of low-dose X-rays. This allows real-time imaging of organs and guided interventional procedures. 

It is commonly used in angiography, venography and outlining body structures.

A PET scan is a unique imaging technique that utilises a special radioactive substance to detect metabolically active tissues, helping in the identification of tumours or inflammatory conditions. 

This technique is known for its accuracy in pinpointing areas with increased metabolic activity

Mammography is a vital tool in women's health, utilising X-rays to detect irregularities or early signs of breast cancer. 

Regular screenings can ensure early detection and effective management of breast cancer.

Interventional radiology (IR) offers a range of minimally invasive procedures guided by radiological images. 

IR treatments serve as alternatives to open and laparoscopic surgery, with shorter recovery times and reduced discomfort.

Barnet Hospital

Tel: 020 8216 5100 (from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm)

Chase Farm Hospital

Tel: 020 8375 1129/020 8375 1601 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm)

Royal Free Hospital

Tel: 020 7830 2106

Opening times

Outpatient and general (walk-in service) X-ray: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm
Fluoroscopy appointments: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm
Ultrasound appointments: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
CT appointments: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6.30pm; Saturday, 9am to 5pm
MRI appointments: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 8pm
PET/nuclear medicine: Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm
DEXA appointments: Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm
Emergency CT and X-ray: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Getting referred to the radiology service is a straightforward process. 

Your GP or the specialist you are seeing will identify the need for a radiology test or procedure. They will then fill out a referral form on your behalf, mentioning the specific tests needed.

During your initial consultation with a healthcare provider, such as a GP, a medical consultant or a physiotherapist, they will assess your medical condition and, if necessary, recommend an imaging test, initiating the referral process to our radiology service.

Upon receiving the referral, the radiology booking team will get in touch with you. They will arrange an appointment at a time convenient for you and provide specific instructions on how to prepare for your appointment.

On the day of your appointment, please arrive a bit earlier than your scheduled time, especially if it is your first visit. This will allow you to complete any necessary paperwork and familiarise yourself with our facility, ensuring a smooth and comfortable process.