Diagnostic Radiology and Fluoroscopy use x-rays to diagnose disease and injury. In Diagnostic Radiology, x-rays are used to perform chest and abdomen exams, extremity exams, and intravenous pyelogram (IVP) for example. In contrast, Fluoroscopy uses a special x-ray machine called a fluoroscope as a diagnostic tool. Esophograms, upper GI series, barium enemas and arthrography are common examples of fluoroscopy exams performed by MIMA Radiology at our Sheridan location. Typically, fluoroscopy exams involve a contrast agent, which used to enhance the visualized anatomy for the Radiologist.
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Essentially, Fluoroscopy produces an x-ray of the body’s organs in motion as they function. X-rays are passed through the patient’s body and received by an image intensifier. The image intensifier then converts the x-rays to a visible image on a monitor. Fluoroscopy equipment generally consists of a table with an x-ray tube mounted beneath it. The patient lies on the table during the exam. The image intensifier is suspended above the table and connected to a monitor where the video fluoroscopy (motion and function) can be watched by the Radiologist during the procedure. Since fluoroscopy uses low-dose x-rays, the amount of radiation used during a fluoroscopy exam is minimal.
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The preparation for the patient varies depending on the type of exam being performed. Your physician or our Radiology scheduling department will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your particular exam as well as what to expect.
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