Arcadia Radiology Medical Group provides patients with excellent quality X-Ray and Fluoroscopy studies in a compassionate and caring atmosphere.
What is X-Ray and Fluoroscopy?
X-rays, also known as Radiography, is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is invisible and creates no sensation when it is passed through a patient's body. It is the fastest and easiest way for a Radiologist to view images of bones. Routine x-rays include images of the chest, abdomen and pelvis.
Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures, such as digestive functions, in a live, movie-like sequence. It is a safe and generally non-invasive procedure. Some fluoroscopy imaging studies offered at Arcadia Radiology include Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP), Barium studies such as Upper and Lower GI and Barium Swallow, and Hysterosalpingogram.
Modern x-ray techniques only use a fraction of the x-ray dose required in the early days of radiology and have very tightly controlled x-ray beams. Special care is taken during x-ray examinations to ensure maximum safety for the patient. Women should always inform their physician and x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
Minimally invasive imaging studies known as Special Procedures Radiology, use imaging to guide a Radiologist during a procedure. These procedures may be diagnostic or therapeutic. Some Special Procedures offered at Arcadia Radiology Medical Group include arthrogram, fistulagram, biopsies and hysterosalpingiogram.
Preparing for X-Ray and Fluoroscopy
Generally, no preparation is required for general x-ray, although the patient may be asked to change into a gown to eliminate any interference with metal objects, such as buckles and zippers.
Preparation for fluoroscopy depends on the type of exam that is performed. The patient may be instructed not to eat or drink anything for 8 - 12 hours prior to the exam, or to cleanse the large intestine with a prep kit given to the patient by his or her physician or our staff.
Please contact our office for specific instructions relating to all fluoroscopy studies.
During and After X-Ray and Fluoroscopy
Depending on the type of fluoroscopic exam, a patient will be positioned next to the x-ray equipment standing up and/or lying down. The patient maybe be asked to switch positions during the exam. Contrast agents used during a fluoroscopy exam may be introduced to the body through injections, swallowing, or in select cases, an enema.
Once the fluoroscopy or x-ray study is complete, a patient may resume normal activity. Drinking fluids may be encouraged to help any contrast material move through the body. One of Arcadia Radiology Medical Group's Radiologists will interpret the exam and report the findings to the patient's physician.
