Convenience is important to us. That’s why we offer Fluoroscopy procedures not only at our Cedarhurst and Clayton locations but also in Raleigh, NC. This gives patients the flexibility to choose the right appointment time and location that suits them best. Regardless of where you opt for your procedure, the cost of a Fluoroscopy exam with us is substantially lower than the cost of the same exam performed at a local hospital. We believe that offering value, without compromise, is the right thing to do.
Fluoroscopy
What is a Fluoroscopy Exam?
Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures—similar to an X-ray “movie.” A continuous X-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined. The beam is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail. Fluoroscopy, as an imaging tool, enables physicians to look at many body systems, including the skeletal, digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems.
Some joints, such as the hip and shoulder, are complex structures making accurate diagnoses more difficult. To better visualize the entire joint structure, your doctor may order an “arthrogram” with an MRI or CT to follow. The arthrogram uses live-action X-ray to inject contrast dye directly into the joint. The injection is performed by a radiologist under a local anesthetic. The injection may be slightly painful and you may feel pressure in the joint as the injection is performed. The radiologist and technologist will take steps to make you comfortable. The MRI or CT will be performed directly after the arthrogram is performed so the injected dye will be visible providing more clarity to the structures in the joint.
An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an X-ray examination that uses an injection of contrast material to evaluate kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder. The contrast agent is injected into the vein and a series of X-rays are taken to see the contrast material filter through the kidneys. Once the agent has moved through the kidneys, it will pass down the ureters into the bladder. X-rays are taken throughout to follow the path of the contrast agent, which provides the radiologist with detailed images to allow for an accurate diagnosis.
A hysterosalpingogram or HSG is an X-ray procedure used to determine if the fallopian tubes are patent (open) and if the inside of the uterus (uterine cavity) is normal. It is usually done after the menstrual period ends but before ovulation. A radiologist examines the patient’s uterus and places a speculum into the vagina. The cervix is cleaned, and a device (cannula) is placed into the opening of the cervix. The radiologist gently fills the uterus with a small amount of X-Ray contrast through the cannula, which may cause slight discomfort or pressure. The contrast will highlight the uterus and fallopian tubes, providing the radiologist with images to make an accurate diagnosis.
A joint aspiration is performed to remove a large collection of fluid surrounding a joint. Sometimes bursitis (inflammation of the bursa) causes fluid to collect near a joint. Removing the fluid will decrease the pressure, relieve pain, and improve movement of the joint. During the procedure a local anesthetic may be used, which could cause a brief stinging sensation. The radiologist will insert the needle through the skin into the joint removing fluid by drawing it into a syringe that is attached to the needle.
A Brisement exam is the injection of fluid into the space between a tendon and its lining, or sheath. This procedure breaks up scar tissue and stimulates healing of the tendon. While most commonly used for the Achilles tendon, brisement can be performed on any tendon of the extremities.
Therapeutic joint injections are minimally invasive injections of a long-lasting steroid to relieve the discomfort caused by inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, gout, and tendonitis. The joint injections provide direct treatment to the affected area, which offers more centralized relief and little to no side effects.
A barium swallow exam is a special type of imaging test that uses barium and X-rays to create images of your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Your upper GI tract includes the back of your mouth and throat (pharynx) and your esophagus. Barium is used during a swallowing test to make certain areas of the body show up more clearly on an X-ray. The radiologist will be able to see size and shape of the pharynx and esophagus. These details might not be seen on a standard X-ray.
An upper gastrointestinal series (UGI) is a radiographic (X-ray) examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine) are made visible on X-ray film by a liquid suspension. This liquid suspension may be barium or a water-soluble contrast. The radiologist will take pictures while the liquid moves throughout the GI tract.
A small bowel series is an X-ray examination of the small intestine that uses a special form of X-ray called fluoroscopy and an orally ingested contrast material called barium. Fluoroscopy makes it possible to see internal organs in motion. When the small bowel is coated with barium, the radiologist can view and assess the anatomy and function of it. In the small bowel series, X-rays are taken at timed increments, to see the barium as it moves through the small bowel.