Fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy uses X-rays to provide real-time images of the area being examined. It is often used to examine various body systems, including skeletal, digestive, urinary or reproductive, as well as organs such as the heart, lungs and kidneys. Fluoroscopy is commonly used to examine the intestines and large bowel, and is most often performed using a contrast solution to make tissues and other structures more visible.
Commonly used fluoroscopic procedures include:
Barium Enema (BE)
Lower gastrointestinal tract radiology imaging is an x-ray examination of the large intestine also known as the colon. Fluoroscopy makes it possible to see the intestines in motion as the barium is being introduced. When the colon is filled with barium, the radiologist is able to view and assess the anatomy and function of the colon, including the presence of strictures or in some cases, polyps.
Prior to the exam, the patient is instructed to follow bowel prep procedures so the colon is cleansed prior to the exam. Upon arrival to the radiology area, the patient will need to dress in a gown provided by the technologist. The technologist or radiologist will insert a small tube into the rectum and begin to fill the colon with barium as the radiologist watches on a video screen. This procedure usually takes approximately 20 minutes but may vary from patient to patient. It is important to drink plenty of water for several days after this exam to fully excrete the barium.
Upper Gastrointestinal Series
Upper gastrointestinal series (UGI) is an x-ray examination of the pharynx, esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine. Fluoroscopy allows the radiologist to view and assess the anatomy and function of the upper gastrointestinal tract during the swallowing of barium. As the patient drinks the barium, the radiologist watches as the barium passes through the digestive tract and records images of the passage process. It is important to drink plenty of water for several days after this exam to fully excrete the barium.
Small Intestines
Small bowel study is an X-ray of the small intestines, which is the intestine located between the stomach and the colon. The patient drinks the barium similar to the UGI exam, but is only imaged periodically as the barium moves through the gastrointestinal tract. This process can vary in time for the completion of the exam based on the speed of the barium as it moves through the body.
Hysterosalpingography
Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is an examination of a woman's uterus and fallopian tubes. It is a special fluoroscopy technique performed by the radiologist using contrast to image the anatomy and function of the uterus and fallopian tubes. It is very important to ensure the patient is not pregnant at the time of this procedure.
To schedule an appointment, please call Mat-Su Regional Medical Center at (907) 861-6677.