Fluoroscopy is a type of X-ray that captures moving images, allowing the radiologist to observe the functioning as well as the anatomy of internal organs. Common exams that use fluoroscopy include upper gastrointestinal exams (UGI), barium enemas (BE), and intravenous pyelograms (IVP). It also is used to quickly guide the radiologist when performing a procedure that involves placing a tube, catheter or other device internally. Examples include angiography, myelograms and interventional radiology procedures.
For nearly all of these exams, static or still images are also taken to document what is seen or done at the time of the exam. A fluoroscopy unit consists of three components: the fluoroscope, which moves over the body part of interest; the monitor, that displays the moving image; and the X-ray tube, that generates the X-rays that pass through the body and create the image on the fluoroscope. As with any X-ray, patients do not feel any sensations from fluoroscopy itself.
The upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract extends from the esophagus to the end of the small bowel. Separate X-ray examinations may be done, either alone or in combination, to produce images of this system. Barium enema is a diagnostic X-ray examination of the colon (the large intestine) to check for colon cancer, polyps, diverticula or other abnormalities.
These exams are only performed at our North, Northeast or West locations.
