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XRay/Fluoroscopy

What is an x-ray?

X-ray is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. X-rays can produce diagnostic images of the human body on film or digitally that allow doctors to view and assess broken bones or other injuries. X-rays are an important tool in guiding orthopedic surgery and in the treatment of sports-related injuries. X-ray may uncover more advanced forms of cancer in bones, although early screening for cancer findings requires other methods.

What are some common uses of x-ray?

    Assist doctors in identifying and treating of bone fractures.
  • View, monitor or diagnose joint injuries and infections, arthritis, artery blockages, abdominal pain.
  • Detection and diagnosis of cancer, although usually computed tomography (CT) or MRI is better at defining the extent and the nature of a suspected cancer.

How should I prepare for an x-ray?

There is no special preparation required for most bone x-rays. You may be asked to change into a gown before your examination and remove jewelry, eyeglasses and any metal objects during the exam.

Women should always inform the technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

What should I expect during this exam?

A x-ray exam usually takes five minutes to half an hour.

  • The technologist positions you on the exam table and places a film holder under the table in the area of the body to be imaged.
  • Pillows may be used to help you hold the proper position.
  • Then the technologist steps behind a radiation barrier and asks you to hold very still, without breathing for a few seconds.
  • The x-ray equipment is activated, sending a beam of x-rays through the body to expose the film.
  • The technologist then repositions you for another view, and the process is repeated as necessary.
  • When your x-rays are completed you will be asked to wait until the technologist checks the images.

What will I experience during an x-ray?

  • X-ray imaging is painless.
  • Some discomfort may result from lying on the table, a hard surface that may feel cold.
  • Sometimes, to get a clear image of an injury such as a possible fracture, you may be asked to hold an uncomfortable position for a short time. Any movement could blur the image and make it necessary to repeat the procedure.

What is Fluoroscopy?

With the aid of a contrast agent, Fluoroscopy enables a x-ray technologist to capture an image of an internal body organ while it is functioning. This contrast agent allows the image to be viewed clearly on a monitor or screen.

What are some common uses of Fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is used to screen for ulcers, benign tumors (polyps, for example), cancer, or signs of certain other intestinal illnesses.

What types of tests are given?

  • Barium Swallow
  • Myelography
  • Upper GI
  • Lower GI (Barium Enema)
  • Small Bowel Follow Through

How should I prepare for this procedure?

  • Preparation varies depending on the type of test given - Lower and Upper GI, Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP). Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your exam.
  • You should inform your doctor about any recent illnesses or other medical conditions, as well as any allergies you might have to medications.
  • Women should always inform the technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

What should I expect during this exam?

  • Fluoroscopy is generally painless.
  • Depending on the type of fluoroscopic test you undergo, in general you will be asked to lie or stand between the X-ray machine and a fluorescent screen after putting on a gown.
  • An X-ray scanner produces fluoroscopic images of the body part being examined.
  • You may be repositioned frequently to enable the radiologist or technologist to capture different views.