Fluoroscopy
Traditional fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses x-rays and CCTV (closed circuit television) to produce "real time" images of the body. Modern fluoroscopic systems use digital capture devices to acquire images similar to that used in digital photography. Examples of commonly performed fluoroscopy procedures includes those studies used to investigate the digestive tract (barium meal, barium enema), hepato-biliary system (e.g. cholangiography) and genito-urinary system (e.g.cystography). In most fluoroscopy procedures radiographic contrast agents are introduced into the patient in order to visualize organs that are normally only seen as shadows on a plain radiograph of the abdomen. Contrast agents include barium, air, and iodinated contrast media.
Patient preparation
Preparation will depend very much upon the examination being performed. Please contact the medical imaging department for further information.
How long will the fluoroscopic procedure take?
Most fluoroscopic procedures will take 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, several studies such as barium follow through examinations can take considerably longer.
What about Radiation?
Refer to questions on radiation in FAQ