Radiology Department
Our radiology department provides X-ray, ultrasound, and CT services using SAHPRA-licensed equipment.
Examinations are performed by HPCSA-registered radiographers and reported by specialist radiologists.
Patients are fully informed and consent is obtained prior to any procedure.
Our Radiology Department
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Imaging studies should be ordered and interpreted by qualified medical practitioners. Please consult with your doctor regarding appropriate imaging for your specific medical situation. Radiology services at Botshilu are provided by qualified specialist radiologists and registered radiographers following established safety protocols and quality standards.
Imaging Studies We Provide
Our department offers a full range of diagnostic imaging examinations, including:
- General X-rays: Chest, skeletal, and abdominal imaging
- Computed Tomography (CT): Head, chest, abdominal, vascular, and musculoskeletal studies
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Brain, spine, musculoskeletal, abdominal, pelvic, and cardiac studies (Coming soon, installation in progress)
- Ultrasound: Abdominal, pelvic, vascular, musculoskeletal, thyroid, breast, and scrotal imaging
- Mammography: Screening, diagnostic
- Fluoroscopy: Barium studies, hysterosalpingography (HSG), and other contrast studies
- Interventional Radiology: Image-guided biopsies, drainages, and joint/soft tissue injections
Your referring doctor will determine the most appropriate examination based on your specific clinical needs.
Please note: Our department does not provide routine obstetric or gynaecological ultrasound scans. Patients requiring these examinations should consult with a gynaecologist, who will arrange the appropriate imaging.
Understanding Radiology
Radiology uses imaging technology to assist in diagnosing and, where applicable, treating medical conditions. By producing detailed images of bones, organs, and soft tissues, it enables clinicians to assess internal structures without invasive surgery. Our HPCSA-registered radiographers perform the examinations, while our specialist radiologists interpret the findings and provide comprehensive reports to your referring doctor to inform your clinical care pathway.
How Radiology Works
Diagnostic imaging provides detailed views of bones, organs, and soft tissues to support clinical assessment. Common examinations include X-rays, CT scanner, MRI, ultrasound, and mammography, selected according to the specific clinical indication.
When your referring doctor requests an imaging study, you will receive a request form and be scheduled for the examination. The scan duration varies depending on the type of study and the area being examined. Our radiographers perform the image acquisition, and our specialist radiologists interpret the results. A comprehensive report is then submitted to your doctor to guide your diagnosis and treatment.
Why Choose the Radiology Department at Botshilu Private Hospital?
Comprehensive Imaging Services
Our department offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic imaging examinations, including:
- X-rays
- CT scanning, Multi-slice CT providing cross-sectional imaging
- MRI scanning, MRI for detailed soft tissue imaging
- Ultrasound, General, vascular, and musculoskeletal
- Mammography, For breasts imaging
- Fluoroscopy, Contrast studies
- Interventional procedures, image-guided biopsies and drainages
This broad range of services means most imaging needs can be met on-site, supporting coordinated and timely patient care.
Modern Equipment
Our imaging equipment is licensed by SAHPRA and maintained to current clinical standards. This includes digital radiography systems, multi-slice CT, MRI (Soon to be installed), digital mammography, and high-resolution ultrasound with Doppler capabilities. Images are stored and distributed through a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), enabling electronic access for referring doctors and comparison with previous studies.
Specialist Radiologists
Our radiologists are specialist doctors registered with the HPCSA, having completed advanced training in diagnostic imaging. They interpret a high volume of studies annually and maintain their expertise through ongoing continuing medical education. Several of our radiologists have subspecialty interests, including musculoskeletal, abdominal, women’s imaging, and neuroradiology.
They work closely with your referring doctor, providing comprehensive reports and being available for urgent consultation on complex cases.
Experienced Radiographers
Our radiographers are HPCSA-registered professionals who operate imaging equipment, position patients correctly, and ensure optimal image quality. They also provide patient care during examinations and recognise when images require immediate radiologist review.
Safety First
Patient safety is our priority. We follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), using the lowest radiation dose that produces diagnostic-quality images. This includes:
- Modern dose-reduction technology
- Shielding of radiosensitive organs where appropriate
- Clinical justification for every examination
- Pregnancy screening for women of childbearing age before X-ray or CT
- Strict quality control and equipment maintenance
When we install MRI, we will screen carefully for contraindications (such as metal implants for MRI) to ensure patient safety throughout.
Rapid Turnaround Times
Urgent imaging, including trauma, suspected stroke, and acute abdominal conditions is prioritised for same-day or emergency scanning. Routine outpatient studies are typically reported within 24 hours. Electronic distribution ensures your referring doctor receives results promptly, enabling timely clinical decision-making.
Contrast Safety
Some CT and MRI studies require intravenous contrast to enhance image quality. We screen all patients for risk factors (such as allergies or kidney impairment), use the lowest effective contrast dose, and monitor patients during administration. Emergency equipment is immediately available to manage any rare adverse reactions.
Patient Comfort and Communication
We understand that some patients may feel anxious about imaging procedures. Our staff provides clear explanations before every examination, answers questions patiently, and offers reassurance throughout the process. We accommodate special needs, including disability support and language assistance, and ensure patient dignity is maintained at all times.
Integrated with Clinical Care
Our radiology department is fully integrated with Botshilu Private Hospital. This enables:
- Electronic image and report access for all hospital doctors
- Immediate radiologist consultation for inpatients
- Coordinated care between emergency, surgical, and radiology departments
- Interventional procedures performed with surgical backup available
- Seamless care, imaging can be ordered, performed, and reported on the same day
Emergency and After-Hours Availability
We provide 24-hour emergency imaging services for hospital inpatients and emergency department patients. This includes emergency X-rays, CT scanning for trauma, stroke, and acute abdominal conditions, emergency ultrasound, and on-call radiologist coverage for prompt interpretation of urgent studies.
Our Imaging Team
Radiologists
Radiologists are specialist doctors registered with the HPCSA who have completed advanced training in diagnostic imaging. They interpret imaging studies, correlate findings with clinical information, provide comprehensive reports to your referring doctor, and perform image-guided interventional procedures when required.
Radiographers
Radiographers are HPCSA-registered professionals who operate X-ray, CT, and MRI equipment. They position patients correctly, select appropriate technical parameters, ensure image quality, and provide patient care during examinations.
Sonographers
Sonographers are HPCSA-registered professionals with specialised training in ultrasound imaging. They perform ultrasound examinations, acquire images, and take relevant measurements. All ultrasound studies are reviewed and reported by a radiologist.
Together, our team works collaboratively to ensure accurate, safe, and high-quality diagnostic imaging for every patient.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Concerns and Honest Answers
We keep radiation as low as possible, only what’s needed for a clear image. The benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the small risk.
Yes, you can refuse. But please speak to our radiologist first, we screen for allergies and can take precautions. Emergency equipment is always on hand.
Yes. Let our staff know beforehand. We can reassure you throughout, and in some cases, sedation can be arranged.
It depends. Tell us about any implants, pacemakers, or surgical clips before your appointment. We’ll check if it’s safe for you.
MRI takes longer, typically 20 to 60 minutes, because it builds highly detailed images. CT is much faster, often done in minutes.
Fasting helps us get clearer images by reducing gas and food in your stomach. We’ll give you specific instructions beforehand.
You must tell us if you are or may be pregnant. We will assess the need and may use alternative imaging where appropriate. Safety comes first.
The MRI magnet is very strong, it can pull metal objects towards the scanner dangerously. Please remove all jewellery and metal before entering.
Very accurate, but no test is 100%. Our specialist radiologists interpret thousands of studies a year. Sometimes follow-up tests are needed, your doctor will explain why.
Sometimes we need to monitor changes, compare to treatment, or get a clearer view. Your doctor will always explain the reason. We avoid unnecessary scans.