Private Ankle X-ray Scan from £169
An ankle X-ray uses a small amount of ionising radiation to create images of the ankle bones and joint alignment. It is commonly used after injury or when a bone or joint problem is suspected.
What can a ankle X-ray scan assess?
X-rays show bones and joint spaces well, but they do not show tendons, ligaments or cartilage in detail. The number of views depends on the clinical question.
Why might a clinician recommend this scan?
- Assessment of suspected fracture or dislocation
- Persistent ankle pain or swelling
- Review of joint alignment or arthritic change
- Selected post-treatment or post-operative checks
How to prepare
Usually no special preparation is needed. Remove jewellery or metal objects near the ankle if requested and tell the team if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
Safety and limitations
X-ray uses ionising radiation, typically at a low dose. The imaging team considers whether it is appropriate and uses the required views for the clinical question.
X-ray uses ionising radiation. The imaging team considers whether the examination is justified for your clinical question and uses an appropriate protocol.
How does it compare with other scans?
If symptoms suggest a tendon or ligament injury despite normal X-rays, ultrasound or MRI may be considered. CT can provide more detail for complex fractures.
More than a scan: doctor-led care before and after
Your scan is part of a supported care pathway. You do not need to arrange your own referral.
Before your scan: GP consultation
Discuss your symptoms, medical history and concerns with a GP. This helps you understand whether the scan is appropriate and what the examination is intended to investigate. If imaging is clinically appropriate, PrivateScans arranges the referral as part of the process.
After your scan: understand the report
Your images are reviewed and reported by a Consultant Radiologist. Your post-scan GP consultation gives you an opportunity to discuss the report in context, ask questions and understand possible next steps.
Included with your service
- Pre-scan GP consultation
- Private medical referral where appropriate
- Consultant Radiologist’s report
- Digital access to your images and report
- Post-scan GP consultation
- Dedicated Patient Care Team support
Consultation fee: You pay £25 when you book. If you proceed with the scan, the £25 is deducted from the scan price. If you do not proceed, you pay only the £25 consultation fee.
Ankle X-ray scan FAQs
Practical answers about booking, preparation, reporting and the clinical pathway.
How much does a private ankle x-ray scan cost?
A private ankle x-ray scan starts from £169. You pay £25 for the pre-scan GP consultation when you book. If you go ahead with the scan, the £25 is deducted from the scan price. If you decide not to proceed, you only pay the £25 consultation fee. If you are unsure whether this scan is right for you, speak to a doctor today.
Do I need a referral?
No, you do not need to arrange your own referral. You start with a pre-scan GP consultation with PrivateScans. The GP discusses your symptoms and medical history and, if the scan is clinically appropriate, PrivateScans arranges the referral as part of the process.
Who reports my scan?
Your images are reviewed and formally reported by a Consultant Radiologist. The written report explains the imaging findings; your post-scan GP consultation helps you discuss the results in the context of your symptoms and possible next steps.
When will I receive my report?
Your Consultant Radiologist’s report is usually available within 3 days of your scan.
What happens before and after the scan?
Your service includes a pre-scan GP consultation, referral arrangements where imaging is clinically appropriate, the scan, a Consultant Radiologist’s report, digital access to your images and report, a post-scan GP consultation and support from the Patient Care Team.
Can an X-ray show ligament damage?
Can an X-ray show ligament damage? Usually not directly; X-rays mainly show bones and alignment. Ultrasound or MRI may be needed for soft-tissue injuries.
Unsure whether this scan is right for you?
Speak to a doctor about your symptoms and the most appropriate next step.