Neck (soft tissue) X-ray
Quick answer: A soft tissue neck X-ray shows the airway, throat and soft tissues of the neck, rather than focusing on the neck bones. Doctors order it for a suspected swallowed object such as a fish bone, throat swelling, or breathing or swallowing problems.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 5 to 10 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed, but remove metal items from the area and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
How the test is done
- 1You remove necklaces, earrings and anything metal near the neck
- 2You stand or sit side-on to the plate with your chin slightly raised
- 3You may be asked to breathe in slowly while the picture is taken
- 4A front view may also be taken
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A radiologist reports on the images, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
The X-ray can show a stuck bone such as a fish or chicken bone if it is dense enough, swelling of the tissues behind the throat, or narrowing of the airway. Many fish bones are too thin to show, so a normal X-ray does not rule one out.
Who usually has this test
People who feel something stuck in the throat after eating, children with noisy breathing or a swallowed object, and people with throat swelling.
Risks and aftercare
There is no aftercare from the X-ray itself; the dose is low, tell staff if you might be pregnant, and get urgent help if swallowing or breathing gets worse.
Names and options
Also called: soft tissue neck X-ray, neck AP lateral X-ray, X-ray neck
Options
- Front and side views (AP and lateral)
- Front view (AP)
- Front and side views (soft tissue)
- Side view (lateral)
Listed by the hospital as
- NECK AP, LAT DIGITAL X-RAY
- SOFT TISSUE NECK AP DIGITAL X-RAY
- SOFT TISSUE NECK AP, LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
- SOFT TISSUE NECK LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
Questions about this test
Can an X-ray show a fish bone stuck in my throat?
Some fish bones show on a neck X-ray, but many are too thin or faint. If you still feel it, a doctor may look directly with a scope.
How is a soft tissue neck X-ray different from a neck spine X-ray?
It uses settings that show the airway and soft tissues more clearly, rather than focusing on the bones. The aim is to see swelling, objects or airway narrowing.
Why am I asked to breathe in during the neck X-ray?
Breathing in fills the airway with air, which makes its outline and any swelling around it easier to see.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.