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Overview
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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. 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.
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(1) Philips EasyDiagnost Eleva Fluoroscopy System
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A diagnostic X-ray study of the spinal canal, nerve roots and spinal cord by injection of contrast solution into the spinal canal.
- Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your exam time.
- With approval from your doctor or provider, discontinue use of blood thinners such as Coumadin or aspirin three days prior to your exam.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to accompany you. We require you to have a driver before being discharged.
- Jewelry, including piercings, must be removed prior to your study. Patients are encouraged to leave all jewelry at home.
- Do not eat 4 hours prior to exam; take clear liquids only. Continue medications as prescribed except for blood thinners as noted above.
- Wear comfortable two-piece clothing.
For your safety, please notify our scheduling department and technologists:
- If you are allergic to iodine
- If you are diabetic
- If you believe you may be pregnant
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During your visit, a patient advocate will show you to the changing area and can assist you if necessary. Our changing rooms offer secure lockers, but we encourage patients to leave valuables at home. Once changed, our patient advocate will guide you to a waiting area where you will find a selection of magazines and newspapers.
Our Radiology Practioner Assistants (RPA) and technologists are specially trained and certified by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists. During the study, you will lie on a motorized X-ray table that can be tilted up or down. You will lie on your stomach and your back will be marked with a pen where the puncture will occur. The area will be sterilized. The sterilizing solution may feel cool or cold. Once the needle is in place, the RPA will inject the contrast solution and take X-rays. After the myelogram, you will receive a CT scan to get more detailed cross-sectional images of your spine, which will be used in conjunction with the X-rays. After the procedure, you can expect to remain in the X-ray department for up to one hour to minimize the chance of having a headache and to give your body a chance to replace the fluid that was drawn.
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A sub-specialized radiologist will interpret your images and prepare a diagnostic report for your physician.
Results are usually made available to your physician in two or three days. If outside comparison studies are required, it may take longer for your results to be made available.
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Fluoroscopy - A myelogram may be used to determine the cause of arm or leg numbness, weakness or pain. It looks for narrowing of the spinal canal, spinal stenosis, spinal tumors or infection, herniated discs, inflamation of the membrane surrounding the spinal cord and brain, and problems with blood vessels to the spine.
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