Fluoroscopy refers to live real time x-ray imaging. It is often also called “screening” due to the fluorescent screens which were initially used to evaluate realtime x-ray images. Nowadays a fluoroscopy unit usually consists of an x-ray source, an image intensifier which enhances the image and a digital x-ray camera to record the images.

Different forms of contrast media are often instilled during fluoroscopy and the movement of this contrast or motion of organs themselves are evaluated.  An example would be a barium swallow in which the patient drinks barium contrast and x-ray images are then obtained of the contrast moving down the oesophagus. The contrast also outlines different structures for improved evaluation. Fluoroscopy is used throughout the body with many different procedures, each with their own special technique. Specific preparation may be required for certain procedures which will be explained when a booking is made.

In some cases fluoroscopy is used to inject contrast into specific joints or spaces after which a CT or MR is performed for further evaluation.

We currently perform fluoroscopy at our St Anne's and Hilton branches.

Specific fluoroscopy procedures:

Contrast swallow

Contrast meal

Contrast enema

Cystogram (incl. Voiding cysto-urethrogram)

Myelogram

Arthrogram

Dacrocystogram

Sialogram

Sinogram/Fistulogram