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Diagnostic X-Rays & Fluoroscopy
The practice of Radiology began with the discovery of the x-ray in 1895 by the German physics professor Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen. X-ray has improved over the centuries and still remains a critically important modality. It is especially useful for viewing the skeletal system but also is commonly used in the chest to detect such diseases as lung cancer and pulmonary edema. X-ray can often view blockages in the abdomen.
Our Poughkeepsie and Fishkill locations are also equipped with state-of-the-art fluoroscopic units. These devices now use digital imaging allowing the radiologist to view internal structures with increased detail and sharpness.
How to Prepare for a Fluoroscopy exam.
You will be given detailed instructions from your physician or DRA Imaging depending on what body part is to be examined.
How is x-ray / fluoroscopic exam performed?
- A radiologic technologist and/or radiologist will place you in the proper positions needed for the best view.
- For a basic X-ray, you will be placed in various positions and asked to remain still. You’ll be asked to wait so the technologist can verify that a quality image was obtained. Usually two to three images are obtained per body part for an x-ray.
- For some fluoroscopic exams, you will be required to drink liquid barium which looks like a lightly colored milkshake. The radiologist will watch the barium pass through your digestive tract on the fluoroscope in a movie-like sequence that’s seen on a monitor. You may be positioned at different angles.
- X ray images are then taken. You’ll be asked to remain still to prevent blurred images.
- Depending on the fluoroscopic exam, you can expect the procedure to take anywhere between 1 to 4 plus hours.
Pregnancy Policy:
All patients of childbearing age (10 - 54) will be required to sign that there is No Chance of Pregnancy prior to an imaging exam being performed (Exception: - Ultrasound). If there is a chance of pregnancy, STAT blood work will be ordered prior to the procedure being performed to establish that there is no chance of pregnancy.
In the event, you are pregnant and the exam is deemed necessary by your physician, you will be shielded and monitored with a radiation badge.