What is Fluoroscopy?
 Fluoroscopy
uses a continuous low-dose X-ray beam to produce images
of organs and bones in real time. During this
procedure, radiologists usually use contrast material
(dye) to highlight the area being examined. The
contrast material can be injected or taken orally or
rectally.
How do you prepare for
your Fluoroscopic Exam?
• You will be asked
to arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appoint and
to bring your referral. If you need to reschedule or
cancel, please call 24 hours in advance. Let us
know what medications you take, including
non-prescription medicines and supplements.
• Tell us if you are or may be pregnant or are
breastfeeding.
• If you are scheduled for arthrographic fluoroscopy
and are taking Coumadin (a blood thinning medication),
arrange with your doctor's permission
to stop taking the medication 5 days before your
appointment. Ask your physician to arrange an INR
(International Normalized Ratio) blood test before your
appointment. If the result is above 1.5, you will need
to reschedule your appointment. Please bring your blood
test results with you.
Special
instructions for GI/ small bowel exams
• Do not
eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum after midnight the night
before your exam. You may brush your teeth, but avoid
swallowing any water.
Special
instructions for barium enema and air contrast enema
exams
• Pick up a prep kit from your local pharmacy
scheduled before your appointment. Use the kit,
following the instructions that come with it.
• For children
under 12, please call our office for special
instructions.
• If you have a colostomy, call our office for special
instructions.
What will you experience
during your Fluoroscopy?
On arrival
• A technologist will
take you to the exam room, ask you some medical
questions, and explain what you can expect during your
test.
• Depending on what part of your body is being
examined, you may need to remove some of your clothing
and put on a gown.
• You will need to remove any metal (including
necklaces and body piercings) or plastic from the part
of your body being examined.
During your
Fluoroscopy
• The technologist will position you sitting,
standing, or lying on the exam table and the Fluoroscopy
will be conducted.
• You will receive special instructions about
preparing for the exam and receiving contrast material
before your exam.
After your
Fluoroscopy
• You can leave immediately after your
Fluoroscopy.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, for the
next 24 hours to help flush the contrast material from
your body.
• The radiologist will review your Fluoroscopy and
send the results to your physician. Urgent findings will
be called or faxed in to your physician.
For an
appointment, please call (805) 778-1513 or click here
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