fluoroscopy

Your doctor has requested you undergo a diagnostic examination. Many of these examinations are commonly referred to as X-Rays. The following information should help clarify what you can expect regarding the procedure.

WHAT IS AN X-RAY?

An X-ray examination uses ionizing radiation to make images of your bones and internal organs. Simply put, an X-ray allows your doctor to take pictures of the inside of your body.

X-rays are painless medical tests that help your doctor in diagnosis and treatment, even in emergency situations. The type of X-Ray you are having depends on what your doctor has ordered. Different types of X-Rays may include chest X-Rays to look for pneumonia or an X-Ray of your foot to determine if your pain is due to a broken bone.

WHAT WILL THE EXAM BE LIKE?

You will be met by a technologist whose primary concern is your care and well-being. This technologist has completed a rigorous course of education and training, and works under close supervision of the radiologist to assure the most accurate results from your examination. Prior to the start of your exam, the technologist will explain the procedure to you and address any concerns you may have. Next, you will be gently positioned for your scan. It is important that you remain still, because even the slightest movement during the exam can blur the picture and result in the need for repeated scans. The technologist will have you in full view at all times and will remain in constant communication with you during your examination.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE EXAM?

Your preparation depends on what type of examination you are having. In many cases there is no advanced preparation for your X-Ray examination. Please see the list below for those exams requiring special preparation.

BARIUM ENEMA EXAMINATION (COLON)

  1. You Will Need:
    * 1 - 238 gram bottle of Miralax Laxative
    * 1 - Box of Dulcolax tabs (contains 8) NOT SUPPOSITORIES
    * 1 - Gallon of Gatorade (Diabetics may use Powerade
  2. DAY BEFORE EXAM: Start a Clear Liquid Diet (Broth or bouillon, water, tea, coffee, popsicles, juice (no citrus). Mix the entire bottle of Miralax with the gallon of Gatorade in a large pitcher and refrigerate. At 4:00 pm, take 4 Dulcolax tabs and drink half of the Gatorade/Miralax mixture through the straw. Remain near the bathroom facilities for the remainder of the evening.
  3. DAY OF EXAM: 4 hours prior to the exam, repeat the prep (4 more Dulcolax tablets and drink the rest of the liquid mixture.

HOW LONG DOES THE EXAM TAKE?

This exam usually takes just a few minutes. Actual exposure time is minimal although the time can vary significantly depending on the study requested and other factors. The radiologist, a physician specialist, will study the results of your exam and discuss them with your doctor, who will then consult with you.

INTRAVENOUS PYELOGRAM (IVP)

DAY BEFORE EXAM: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight.

UPPER GI SERIES (STOMACH) / SMALL BOWEL SERIES

DAY BEFORE EXAM: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight.

Reports are also available on the Patient Portal