X-Ray and Fluoroscopy

Radiography (Routine X-Ray)

Routine x-rays are images of the body performed using x-rays to expose a piece of film. The x-rays pass through different tissues of the body and onto the film in different amounts. Very few x-rays pass through bone causing it to appear white on the film, while more pass through muscle causing it to appear gray. These differences are what create the image on the film. Many parts of the body such as the chest and bones are imaged this way.

---

Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is a technique for obtaining “real time” x-ray images of a patient. The radiologist uses a switch to control a continuous x-ray beam that is transmitted through the patient. The radiologist can then watch the images on a monitor. Fluoroscopy is often used to observe the digestive tract (Upper GI series - Barium Swallow, Lower GI series - Barium Enema or "BE").

---

Myelogram

Myelograms are a specialized x-ray of the spine usually performed to evaluate a point of nerve compression on the spinal cord. The radiologist injects a contrast agent (dye) into the spinal canal and x-rays are taken to visualize the point of compression. The patient's doctor may request a CT scan following this study.

---

Arthrogram

This is a contrast-enhanced study of a joint, most commonly of the shoulder or knee. The Radiologist - with the use of Fluoroscopy - injects a contrast agent into the joint space.  After the Arthrogram is complete, a CT or MRI follows.

DURING THE EXAM:

You will be able to wear your own clothing but for some studies you may be asked to change into a gown. You may also be asked to remove metal objects (a watch, for example) from the path of the x-rays. You will be positioned either on the table or standing, depending on the type of exam. A piece of film is placed next to a part of your body that is to be filmed. One or more images are taken in different views. The films are developed and brought to the radiologist for review. Additional views may be needed at this time.

After the Exam:

After the scan, you may return to your normal activities or follow any instructions set by your physician. Your physician will then let you know of the results from your scan.