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Overview

A Fluoroscopy scanner uses an X-ray beam, passed through the body to create an X-ray 'movie.' The images are captured and viewed on a fluoroscope, which looks like a small television with a round screen. Unlike a traditional X-ray that produces a single image, fluoroscopy studies produce real-time video of the anatomy and how it moves.

In addition to skeletal images, fluoroscopy is used to look at the digestive, urinary, respiratory and reproductive systems.

You can review information specific to your scan by selecting from the 'study type' menu in the left column.


FLUOROSCOPY - LOWER GI BARIUM ENEMA

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Prep & Safety

A Barium Enema is an x-ray exam of your rectum and colon, providing a detailed look at your lower digestive tract. This exam helps your physician detect problems such as a blockage, a tomor, polyps, or other disorders. There is a small amount of radiation with a barium enema, but the benefits of this test far outweigh any risks.

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time. Your exam will take 1 to 2 hours.

  • IMPORTANT: Click on this link to see "Patient Prep Instructions for Fluoroscopy Colon Exam" document: Colon Prep Kit.
  • Notify your physician and Oregon Imaging if you are on a sodium-restricted diet.

    Start this preparation the day before your exam. Low Sodium Prep Kit instructions may differ from the #1 kit. Please follow directions exactly and take the medication, food and water in the amounts shown and at the exact times shown. This preparation will loosen your bowel movements and clean out your digestive track. Expect to use the bathroom frequently throughout the night.

    24-Hour Prep Instructions:

    • 8:00 am - Eat a light meal (see prep kit instructions for diet guidelines)
    • 12:00 - 3:00 pm - Every hour drink at least 8 oz clear liquids (see prep kit instructions for clear liquid guidelines)
    • 4:00 pm - Take Fleet Phospho-soda Solution (see prep kit for Phospho-soda Solution directions) Follow immediately with at least 8 oz clear liquids
    • 5:00 pm - Drink at least 8 oz clear liquids
    • 6:00 pm - Dinner - All clear liquids
    • 7:00 - 8:00 pm - Every hour drink at least 8 oz clear liquids
    • 9:00 pm - Take the 4 Bisacodyl Tablets (see instruction sheet for Bisacodyl Tablet directions)
    • 7:00 am - Use Fleet Bisacodyl Suppository (See prep kit instructions for suppository instructions)

    Precautions: Because of the risks of radiation exposure to the fetus, pregnant women are advised to avoid this procedure.

    Important Information: For your safety, the technologist needs to know the following:

    • What are your symptoms?
    • Have you had any previous surgery in your abdomen?
    • Have you had a recent colonoscopy?
    • Did they remove polyps?
    • What were the findings?
    • Are you pregnant, or think you may be?
    • Did you eat or drink before the test?
    • How did your preparation for the exam go?

    The Experience

    During your exam:

    1. A tube (enema tip) will be inserted into your rectum.
    2. A small balloon on the enema tip will be inflated to help prevent you from moving your bowels.
    3. Barium (a liquid that enhances x-ray images) will be inserted into your rectum.
    4. You will feel like you need to go to the bathroom.
    5. You will need to shift your position and hold your breath a few times while the x-rays are taken.
    6. Pressure may be applied to your stomach - this helps to get the best images. Air may also be added to the enema to enhance the images. The technologist may need to take additional x-rays.
    7. At the end of the study you will be able to go to the bathroom

    For your comfort: Breathe slowly and deeply to help yourself relax. Focus on the technologist's instructions during the exam. This will speed up the process and limit any discomfort.

     

    After the Exam

    After your exam:

    How active you are for the rest of the day is up to you. You can get back to your normal routine and diet right away, but it is very important to drink more water than usual. Water will help relieve constipation you may have after this exam. Your stool may appear white or light for a day or two. Your physician will let you know when the results are in.

     

     


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