WHAT IS FLUOROSCOPY AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Fluoroscopy uses x-rays to capture a moving image of an organ while it is functioning. Though still x-ray images can be useful in examining the colon, and rectum, fluoroscopy is often the most effective way to view the esophagus, stomach, and upper or lower gastrointestinal tract. A contrast material called barium is used to coat the inside of the esophagus, stomach, colon, or rectum to produce a sharp, well-defined image of the anatomy in interest.
IS FLUOROSCOPY FOR EVERYONE?
Most individuals can have a radiographic or fluoroscope procedure. However, care must be considered for pregnant females. Women should always inform their doctor and radiologic technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. It is very important that if you are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregnancy or breast feeding that you inform your physician and the center personnel prior to your X-ray procedure. Your physician, in conjunction with the radiologist, will determine if the procedure is appropriate or whether another diagnostic procedure is recommended. Special care is taken during x-ray examinations to ensure patient safety by shielding the abdomen and pelvis with a lead apron, with the exception of those examinations in which the abdomen and pelvis are being imaged.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A FLUOROSCOPY PROCEDURE?
- We request that you arrive 15-30 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure time to complete paperwork and to change clothes if necessary.
- Please bring the written prescription your physician gave you for this procedure.
- There are no special preparations required for most radiographic procedures. Once you arrive, you may be asked to change into a gown before your examination. You will also be asked to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and any objects that could obscure the images, since those show up on x-rays and may interfere seeing the area of interest clearly.
- You should inform your physician or a center staff member if you are taking GLUCOPHAGE (METFORMIN) OR GLUCOVANCE (GLYBURIDE/METFORMIN) for a diabetic condition.
- Many fluoroscopic procedures require specific preparation prior to the procedure. The center scheduling personnel will provide you with special diet and procedure preparations when making the appointment.
- We strongly encourage you to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have prior to your procedure. We strongly believe that communication with our patients is an important part of the service we provide.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING A FLUOROSCOPY PROCEDURE?
- You may be asked to change into a clinic gown and escorted to the Fluoroscopy room.
- For fluoroscope procedures, you will be requested to stand or lie on an examination table while the radiologist moves the fluoroscope equipment around the body area of interest.
- The radiologist will tell you when to hold your breath or change positions so he/she can see the area of interest from different angles.
- Our goal is to provide you with a pleasant and comfortable Fluoroscopy procedure. If you are uncomfortable in any way, please inform your radiologic technologist.
HOW LONG WILL THE FLUOROSCOPY PROCEDURE TAKE?
Usually, a fluoroscopic procedures can take 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the type of procedure you're having.
WHEN DO I GET MY FLUOROSCOPY RESULTS?
Our certified radiologic technologist will prepare your x-ray images for the radiologist to evaluate. The radiologist will interpret your results and dictate a written report, which will be forwarded to your physician generally within 24 to 48 hours of completion of your procedure. Your physician will convey the results of the procedure to you.