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Q Copying X-rays

A patient has asked for a copy of her x-ray and I would like some advice on how to copy x-rays.

A

• You can use twin pack film – this assumes that you know in advance that you want 2 copies of the radiograph. This can be useful for referrals. You keep one radiograph on the file and send the other with the referral letter.
• If this is something you plan to do regularly you could buy an x-ray copying box. The cost is approximately £80; it is battery operated. You need a dark room/light proof box where you have to load special copying film which has to be placed in direct contact with the already developed radiograph that you want to copy. You press a button for 10 seconds and then process the copy film as usual. This method is particularly technique-sensitive and is dependent on the operator having a good technique. It is only suitable for periapical or bitewing radiographs.
• Preferably for medico-legal requests you should ask the radiography department of your local hospital if they will copy them. This can be quite expensive, but you could pass the charge onto the patient.
• The original radiograph must be retained for practice records, but you can make a reasonable charge to the patient for the copy radiograph.