Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is an imaging procedure that shows live X-ray images on a monitor, much like an X-ray movie. During the procedure, an X-ray beam is transmitted through the body and shown on a monitor so the movement of a body part, or of an instrument or contrast agent can be seen in detail.

The Fluoroscopy unit 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.

This imaging is conducted for a wide range of uses, all of which share the need to review body function in action. In addition to skeletal images, fluoroscopy is used to look at the  urinary, respiratory and reproductive systems. However, there are many other instances for which this is a useful study.

With most exams, you are given a contrast material that acts as a dye, highlighting specific areas to promote visibility and examination accuracy. Contrast is given using different methods, most commonly in the form of injection.

Please refer to the page specific to your study type for your prep guidelines. You will also receive this information at the time you schedule your appointment. Because of the risk of radiation exposure to the fetus, pregnant women are advised to avoid this procedure. In all cases, alert us if you are diabetic or allergic to iodine. Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment unless otherwise indicated.

A radiologist who is specially trained to interpret fluoroscopy images will review them. If the examination was ordered “stat” your physician will be notified the same day. If the examination was routine, the results are provided to your physician within 48 hours.

Q. What about radiation? Should I worry about exposure?

A. This procedure uses more radiation than a typical X-ray. To minimize exposure, we have invested in equipment and staff that obtain the best quality images with the least amount of exposure.

Q. What part of my body receives the radiation?

A. It depends on the purpose of the study.

Myelogram

What: A myelogram may be used to determine the cause of arm or leg numbness, weakness or pain. Myelograms evaluate for spinal stenosis, spinal tumors and herniated discs. It allows study of the spinal canal, nerve roots and spinal cord by injection of contrast solution into the spinal canal.

What to expect: 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, contrast will be injected and you will then be taken to the CT department for a detailed cross-sectional evaluation of your spine. After your procedure, you can expect to remain in the CT department for up to an hour of recovery time.

Prep:

  • 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 as directed by the Radiologist’s Assistant.
  • Arrange for a family member or friend to accompany you. We require you to have a driver before being discharged.
  • Do not eat 4 hours prior to exam; take clear liquids only. Continue medications as prescribed except for blood thinners, as noted above.
General Joint Injection

What: A joint injection may be used to administer a steroid medication to help relieve chronic pain or inflammation. Your doctor may request an aspiration where a sample of joint fluid is collected and sent to the lab for analysis.

What to expect: During the study, you will lie on an X-ray table. The skin over the joint 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, contrast media and X-rays will be used to verify location prior to injection of steroid anesthetic mixture or arthrogram contrast.

Prep:

  • Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your exam time.
  • With approval from your doctor or provider, discontinue use of blood thinners such as Coumadin or aspirin as directed by the Radiologist’s Assistant.
  • Continue medications as prescribed except for blood thinners, as noted above.
Cystogram & VCUG

What: A cystogram is an exam used to check for problems of the bladder and lower urinary tract. A VCUG or Voiding Cystourethrogram is a functional study of the bladder and the urethra.

What to expect: During your study, a small catheter (a thin, flexible, hollow tube), will be inserted into the bladder via the urethra. Contrast is injected into the tube to fill the bladder. You will be asked to hold your bladder while the radiologist or Radiologist’s Assistant takes X-rays. This is necessary to fully view the bladder. If we are evaluating for reflux and/or the urethra, you may be asked to empty your bladder on the exam table to capture X-ray images while voiding . This study takes approximately 45 minutes.

Hysterosalpingogram

What: A Hysterosalpingogram is a study of the uterus and fallopian tubes, which is typically performed 10 days from the onset of the patient’s last menstrual cycle. It is used to determine if the fallopian tubes are open, or if there are any apparent abnormalities or defects in the uterus. It can be used to detect tumors, scar tissue, or tears in the lining of the uterus. This procedure is often used to help diagnose infertility in women.

What to expect: Your legs will be bent with your feet on the outer edges of the table. X-ray equipment will be placed above your abdomen.

A speculum will be inserted into your vagina and a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) will be guided into the uterus through the cervix (the opening to the uterus). A small balloon in the catheter is inflated to hold it in place. A liquid water-based dye is injected through the catheter into the uterus. This process may cause cramping, minimal spotting/bleeding, and discomfort.

The radiologists will watch for blockages or abnormalities on an X-ray monitor as the dye spreads. Some patients experience mild cramping during this procedure. This procedure takes approximately 45 minutes.

Intravenous Pyelogram Study

What: An intravenous pyelogram, or IVP, is a functional X-ray examination of the kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder. It helps the physician assess abnormalities in the urinary system, as well as how quickly and efficiently the patient’s system is able to handle waste.

The exam is used to help diagnose symptoms such as blood in the urine or pain in the side or lower back. The IVP exam can enable the radiologist to detect problems within the urinary tract resulting from:

  • kidney stones
  • enlarged prostate
  • tumors in the kidney, ureters or urinary bladder

What to expect: During the study, the technologist or a nurse will start an IV for the contrast agent, which is used to enhance the X-ray images. When the technologist injects the contrast through your IV, you may feel a flush of warmth or experience a metallic taste in your mouth. This is normal and will quickly subside. A series of x-rays will then be taken.

A radiologist will assess abnormalities in the urinary system and how quickly and efficiently your urinary system is functioning. At the conclusion of your exam, you may be asked to empty your bladder while additional X-ray images are taken. This study takes approximately one hour. Depending on your kidney function, your study may take longer.

Prep:

  • If you are 60 years of age and older or have kidney disease, a transplant, diabetes or chemotherapy, you must have basic metabolic panel labs drawn within the last 30 days.
  • Take two Ducolax tablets at 6 p.m. the evening prior to your study.
  • After midnight, the evening before your study, take nothing but clear liquids.
  • It is recommended to drink a minimum of 17oz of water prior to the exam unless on fluid restrictions.
  • If the patient is under six months of age, consume only clear liquid four hours prior to study.