Fluoroscopies in South Jersey
A fluoroscopy is an imaging study that uses a specialized X-ray machine that allows for a series of “movie-like” images to be captured to show organ function in real time. Fluoroscopic studies can assess many of the important bodily systems including the digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems.
A fluoroscopy is a minimally invasive imaging study that is more accurate and faster than traditional endoscopic studies. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately rather than needing days of rest to recover.
Fluoroscopies are commonly used to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract. These studies include barium swallows, upper GI series, and small bowel follow-through series. These imaging studies are very helpful for physicians when they are trying to diagnose unexplainable abdominal pain, abnormal bowel movements, and throat pain. Fluoroscopies help physicians diagnose and manage medical conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS), and gastrointestinal cancers. Fluoroscopy is beneficial when observing key joints such as the shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle. A fluoroscopy can be used to evaluate these areas of the body on its own or in conjunction with an MR arthrogram.
The preparation for a fluoroscopy varies based on what part of the body is being studied. For a fluoroscopy of the gastrointestinal system, you need to practice fasting after midnight before your appointment. For a barium enema, you will need to maintain a clear, liquid diet the day before your appointment. Your physician will go over the time intervals of when to take the Dulcolax tablets and suppository. For an intravenous pyelogram (IVP), you are allowed to maintain a regular diet the day before your appointment but refrain from eating or drinking after midnight. Our subspecialized radiologists at Larchmont Medical Imaging will explain the fluoroscopy study to you and answer any questions you may have about your appointment.