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Fluoroscopy is an imaging procedure that uses continuous X-ray beams through the body part being examined. The procedure produces real-time footage of tissues and organs present inside the body. Medical professionals use fluoroscopy techniques for precise diagnosis and as guiding techniques for various interventional procedures. These include catheter and stent placements, barium X-rays and enemas to view the gastrointestinal tract, angiograms for clear visualisation of organs and blood vessels, and biopsies. In addition, it is also used for surgeries, particularly orthopaedic surgeries, to guide joint replacements and treat fractures. The imaging method also allows specialists to assess specific regions of the body, such as muscles, bones, joints, and internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and other soft tissues.
The Department of Radiology at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, Kolkata, employs cutting-edge techniques and advancements in carrying out fluoroscopic procedures for various interventions. Our skilled and well-coordinated team, comprising interventional radiologists, radiology specialists, technicians, and dedicated nursing staff, ensures that fluoroscopic procedures are conducted with precision and expertise, prioritising patient safety and well-being.
The Fluoroscopy procedure addresses several conditions, some of which include:
Oesophageal disorders, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, gastrointestinal (GI) tract structural problems and tumours, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastric conditions using barium enema or barium swallow radiography
Blocked coronary arteries and other conditions by performing Angiography procedures
Spine-related conditions using Myelography procedure
Infertility or other uterine conditions by employing a Hysterosalpingogram procedure
Preparations for Fluoroscopy procedures depend on the type of procedure performed. For particular Fluoroscopic procedures, such as small bowel Fluoroscopy, you will be advised not to eat or drink for a certain period of time before the procedure. However, most procedures do not require any specialised instructions. Furthermore, you might be requested to wear a gown and remove your clothing before the procedure begins. Additionally, avoid wearing or bringing any metallic objects or jewellery. It is important to inform our specialists if you have any implanted devices, are pregnant, or have had any previous allergies or reactions to contrast dyes.
During the procedure, specialists may administer contrast substances either orally, through an enema, or through an intravenous (IV) line. You will then be positioned on an X-ray table and may be asked to assume different positions depending on the type of procedure. For procedures related to catheter insertion, an additional insertion site is used in the elbow, groyne, or other sites. Specialists then employ a specialised X-ray scanner to produce real-time fluoroscopic images of the organs. After the procedure, the IV line is removed.
The duration of the Fluoroscopy procedure depends on the severity of the condition that is addressed, the region examined, and the anatomy of the patient. Generally, fluoroscopy exams may take 20 to 30 minutes. Certain exams, such as upper gastrointestinal combined with small bowel exams, may take as long as 4 hours.
Fluoroscopy as a diagnostic procedure, is generally painless and does not cause discomfort. However, when Fluoroscopy is combined with interventional procedures, there may be some discomfort or mild pain, depending on the nature of the intervention, such as catheterisation or treatment for fractured bone. Sedation or general anaesthesia is administered before the procedure to numb the pain and minimise discomfort during the procedure. While it is common to experience post-operative pain after the surgery, you will be given pain management medications to address it, along with other post-care instructions.
Similar to any procedure, Fluoroscopy can contribute to complications during the procedure, some of which include:
Radiation-induced injuries to the skin, or burns
Development of cancer that may occur in the future
Birth defects when performed on pregnant women
Manifestation of allergies when contrast agent is used
Unexplained complications due to existing medical conditions
Most complications can be minimised or avoided when interventions are carried out by trained specialists. Doctors in the Department of Radiology and other specialities at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, Kolkata, are well experienced in performing Fluoroscopy procedures. Moreover, it is essential to know that the complications of Fluoroscopy that may arise outweigh the benefits of the procedure.
The duration and type of care needed after undergoing Fluoroscopy depend on the type of procedure performed. Interventions like catheterisation procedures may require several hours of the recovery period, along with immobilisation at where the catheter was inserted. Other procedures may require less recovery time.
General post-procedural instructions you may have to follow after undergoing a Fluoroscopy procedure include:
If sedation or general anaesthesia is required, it is important to arrange for transportation back home after discharge.
You need to abstain from taking a bath for 48 hours. However, you can take a shower. Moreover, the incision site should be dry and free from moisture to avoid infections.
There are no specific restrictions on your activity or diet. In case you feel pain after the procedure that affects your daily life, adhere to pain management medications prescribed by our specialists.
General signs or symptoms you should be aware of after undergoing a Fluoroscopy procedure that may require medical attention include the following:
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