Welcome to the Chest Clinic

Your recent X-ray Report

The report of the lung x-ray you recently had has been brought to our attention as it has shown an abnormality. In some cases an abnormal x-ray is not worrying but in others it may represent something more serious.

It would be useful to explore this further and therefore an urgent chest clinic appointment has been arranged to review your symptoms and discuss the findings of the x-ray in more detail.

This appointment has also been brought to the attention of your GP and we have asked them to send us a letter detailing relevant clinical information about you. They will also arrange for you to have some blood tests prior to the chest clinic appointment.

In some cases, you or your GP may feel that a chest clinic appointment is not required. Your GP will inform us of this and discuss with us any involvement they would like us to have. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you at the chest clinic.

Your appointment and tests

You will be seen in the Chest Clinic by one of the doctors. After that, you may need a CT scan (detailed x-ray). This may be done on the same morning or at a later visit.

Some patients may need inspection of the breathing tubes, which is done with a special kind of telescope. The procedure is called ‘bronchoscopy’.

This is sometimes done on the same day or at a later visit. The procedure will be explained in detail and the doctor will ask for your formal consent for this.

Bronchoscopy is a simple and safe procedure, and is performed under light sedation and local anaesthetic.

If you are seen on a Monday and wish to keep the option of having a ‘same day’ bronchoscopy, you should come with a relative or friend who could take you home. Driving is unsafe after having sedation.

Transport is available by arrangement with the Chest Clinic staff when it is not possible to come with a friend. It is also recommended that you are not left at home alone the night after the procedure.

Alternatively, any bronchoscopy needed can be done at another time, still within a few days, depending on your preference.

Bringing a friend

Please feel free to bring your partner or a friend with you to any appointment. It is often helpful to have a second pair of ears, particularly if it is possible to give you an idea of the cause of your symptoms.

When you see the doctor

Although your consultant will always be in overall charge of your care, there will be occasions when another member of the medical team will see you.

The doctor will tell you about your condition and any treatment or test that you may need. Please ask any questions you may have about your condition.

The doctor or nurse will provide you with written information and will be happy to write down any answers or instructions for you.

Enquiries and advice

A receptionist is available from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday, on 01302 366666 ext 3699.

For advice on your appointment time and date, please ring the Medical Records Department on 01302 366666 ext 3119.