Fluoroscopy

What is a fluoroscopy examination?

A fluoroscopy examination uses a type X-ray called fluoroscopic imaging to view images of the body in real-time. It allows the radiologist to see moving organs such as the stomach and colons. Fluoroscopy is performed by both:

1. Radiologist (a medical doctor who evaluates the X-ray images to diagnose and treat illnesses.)
   
   
2. Radiographer (an allied health professional who produces the images for diagnosis and treatment of illnesses)

Digestive organs such as the oesophagus, stomach and bowels cannot be seen on X-ray images unless coated with a contrast solution called Barium Sulfate. During the examination, you will be required to drink small amounts of contrast solution to coat the lining of the organs to make it visible under the X-ray.

Some of the specialised fluoroscopic examinations performed in SGH include:

• Barium Swallow
  A barium swallow examination evaluates the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, namely the oesophagus, stomach and the first part of your small intestines, focusing on the way you swallow. During the examination, you will be asked to drink small amounts of barium sulfate solution and swallow gas-producing granules.
  
• Barium Meal
  A barium meal examination evaluates the upper gastrointestinal tract, focusing on the stomach and the first part of your small intestines. During the examination, you will be asked to drink small amounts of barium sulfate solution and swallow gas-producing granules.
  
• Water Soluble Contrast Enema
  A water-soluble contrast enema is an examination of your large bowel (colon and rectum) to look for any leakage after large colon surgery. During the examination, an iodinated contrast solution will be passed through the anus using rubber tubing.
  
• Fluoroscopic Injection
  A fluoroscopic injection, commonly known as an arthrogram, is a procedure to inject contrast solution into the joints of your body before a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan. During the procedure, the radiologist will insert a needle into your joints and inject small amounts of iodinated contrast.

Things to note on the day of the appointment

Please refer to the Patient Preparation page for more information.

How to prepare for a Fluoroscopic examination?

Pre-scan preparations and fasting will vary according to the examination requested and the region that is to be scanned. Please refer to the Patient Preparation page for more information.

What happens during a Fluoroscopic examination?

You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any objects that may interfere with the X-ray images. You will be brought into the X-ray room, and the examination will be explained to you.
 
Depending on the type of examination, an injection (Buscopan or Glucagon) will be given by the radiologist to slow down your organ movements. You may also be required to drink small amounts of contrast solution (Barium sulfate).
 
The room lights will be dimmed for the radiologist and radiographer to visualise the images on the screen. During X-ray imaging, you would be required to lie down, stand, or turn your sides to allow clear images to be taken.    

What happens after a Fluoroscopic examination?

You may resume a normal diet after your fluoroscopy examination.

You may continue to take your Diabetic medication after the examination.

There will still be some barium retained in the bowel, and your faecal matter will appear whitish for a couple of days. Barium can occasionally cause constipation, so we recommend that you drink plenty of fluids.

A radiologist will look at the images taken during your scan and write a report that will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results with you at your next clinic visit.

If you experience any allergic reactions such as severe rashes, breathing difficulties or chest discomfort after the fluoroscopic examination, please head to the nearest Accident and Emergency Centre.

What are the possible risks and limitations for a Fluoroscopic examination?

Fluoroscopic examinations (excluding arthroscopic injections) are usually painless. If you experience any pain or discomfort during the examination, please inform the staff immediately.
 
Please inform the staff attending to you if you have any prior history of allergy to the contrast solution or the drug Buscopan or Glucagon.

For female patients, please inform the staff if you are pregnant or likely to be pregnant.

Certain factors will interfere with a fluoroscopy examination. In such cases, your study may be modified, rescheduled or cancelled depending on the situation. The factors include:

• Immobility
  
• Severe obesity
• Inadequate bowel preparation: For example, drinking fluids and eating food before the examination