Convenience is important so we offer Fluoroscopy procedures at our Athens and Huntsville locations so patients can choose the right appointment time, location and option that fits them the best. Regardless of location, the cost of a Fluoroscopy exam 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
This exam acquires real-time images of movement within the body. This helps radiologists to diagnose abnormalities in various body processes such as swallowing, blood flow, or to see how the muscles of the mouth and throat are working.
Fluoroscopy, as an imaging tool, enables physicians to look at many body systems, including the skeletal, digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems.
The difference between X-rays and fluoroscopy is that X-ray takes snapshots of internal tissues in a single moment, whereas fluoroscopy can provide continuous, real-time images of your internal tissues using several pulses (brief bursts) of radiation.
This procedure may also be used as a live view to guide other medical procedures.
Some joints, such as the hip and shoulder, are complex structures making accurate diagnosis 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.
To ensure the body part being studied is accessible, you will be asked to change into a gown.
Arthrograms exams typically take about 30 minutes. Arthrograms are followed by an MRI or CT exam which will take an additional 15-30 minutes.
The area to be injected is cleansed with antiseptic, and a sterile drape is placed around the injection site. Using a small needle, your doctor will inject local anesthetic first.
Once the area is numb, a needle will be used to inject the contrast material. In some cases, joint fluid is removed with a needle prior to injection.
The radiologist will visualize the joint to confirm that the contrast material is within the joint.
You may have soreness, swelling, or a feeling of fullness around your joint after the procedure. Do not overuse or stress the joint directly for a few days after the arthrogram and use ice application to help with any swelling or discomfort.
The radiologist will review the fluoroscopy images and provide a diagnostic report that will be sent directly to your provider. The report is typically available to your provider within 24 hours. Many providers plan scheduled time to discuss results with their patients so you could check with their office to see when they will be available to review the information with you.