Fluoroscopy

What is a Fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses contrast media and X-rays to examine the anatomy and its function. During this imaging procedure, an X-ray is continually passed through the body and transmits an image to a nearby monitor. This allows the radiologist to obtain real-time body movement in greater detail.

Fluoroscopy is mainly used to aid in diagnosing diseases and guide surgeons during minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures.

Types of Fluoroscopy Scans

Reasons you could be referred for a Fluoroscopy Scan

To examine the flow of blood through your arteries and determine if you have any blockages
Assist a doctor in examining unusual anatomy or discomfit in the colon
Test the function and structure of the kidneys, bladder and ureters
Detection of cancers, ulcers and other conditions
Detect blocked fallopian tubes and examine the uterus

What to expect during your Fluoroscopy Scan

You will be asked to change into a gown and lie on the X-ray table. Depending on your procedure, you may be given a contrast agent to swallow, or it will be injected through an IV or enema.

During the exam, you may be asked to adjust your position or hold your breath so the X-ray can capture the images the radiologist needs.

It’s not a painful procedure, but you may experience some discomfort or require anaesthesia if your fluoroscopy is being used for a catheter insertion or another procedure.

Preparing for your Fluoroscopy Scan

It all depends on the fluoroscopy procedure you’re having. Your doctor will brief you on what to expect prior to your appointment. But we’ve also included more information below.

If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at +264 64 218 935.

It’s vital you follow the correct preparations for your procedure. Here’s what you need to know:

The following examinations require preparation:

Barium Enema (BE)

The Day Before Your Appointment:

Have a light breakfast and clear liquids for lunch and dinner. Clear liquids include clear broth, tea, carbonated beverages, or Jello (please avoid red or strawberry flavoured jelly).

Do not eat solid foods or milk products from mid-morning the day before your procedure.

Please drink 250 ml (1 glass) of clear liquid in addition to the advised liquid diet at 1:00, 3:00, 7:00, 10:00 pm and your bedtime.

Take four Bisacodyl tablets at 6:00 pm.

The Day Of Your Appointment:

Take a Fleet Enema one hour before leaving for your examination.

Make sure you wait 15 minutes before having a bowel movement.

Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

Do not eat or drink four hours prior to your examination.

Upper Gastro-Intestinal Series (Upper GI), Barium Swallow (Esophagram) or Small Bowel Follow Through

Do not eat or drink anything from midnight until after your exam.

Hysterosalpingogram

This is an outpatient procedure that usually takes less than 5 minutes to perform.

Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or painkiller for you to take prior to having the scan.

There is a chance you will feel unwell after the procedure. It’s why we advise our patients to arrange alternate means of transport home.

What are the risks and complications of HSG?

HSG is considered a very safe procedure. However, some complications can occur in rare cases, but your chances of this happening are less than 1%. Here are the signs and symptoms to look out for:

Infection – The most common serious problem with HSG is pelvic infection. Please call your doctor if you experience increasing pain or a fever within 1-2 days of the hysterosalpingogram.

Fainting – It’s rare, but you may experience light-headedness during or shortly after the procedure.

Radiation exposure – The radiation exposure from an HSG is very low, less than with a kidney or bowel study. So there’s no cause for concern.

Iodine allergy – Again, it’s rare, but you may have an allergy to the iodine contrast used in HSG. Please inform your doctor if you’re allergic to iodine, intravenous contrast dyes, or seafood.