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General X-ray |
Each part of the body is examined in a different way. Depending on which body part, you maybe required to stand, lie or sit for the examination. You will be moved into various positions by the radiographer to obtain the correct image to aid in a diagnosis. Sometimes these positions may be uncomfortable, but the radiographer will make the examinations as quick as possible. It is important for optimal image quality that while the radiograph is being taken you are perfectly still.
May require that you change into a gown before the examination. Preparation: Nil.
Fluoroscopy ProceduresFluoroscopy procedures use plain x-rays to record a dynamic study (a study of motion). This means that a continuous beam of x-rays is passed through your body and this image is displayed on a monitor. Dynamic movements such as swallowing can be viewed and recorded. To allow these movements to be seen a contrast media such as Barium must be introduced. Barium outlines soft tissue producing a higher quality image. Below is a list and description of the fluoroscopy procedures carried out at Wodonga Medical Imaging.
This is an examination of your oesophagus. You will be asked to drink a barium solution. As this solution passes into your oesphagus and down into your stomach this process will be watched on a monitor and images will be taken. Preparation: Fast for 4hrs prior to examination. Barium Meal This is an examination of your stomach and first section of the duodenum. During this examination, you will be asked to drink a barium solution and a fizzy drink. The fizzy drink will create gas in your stomach in order to distend it and prevent it from collapsing (this improves the image quality). You will be required to assume various positions to ensure your stomach is fully coated. Images may be taken of you lying down and standing up. Preparation: Fast or drink from midnight prior to you appointment. Barium Enema. This examination looks at your bowel. During this examination, a tube will be inserted into your rectum. This tube will allow for the entry of barium. The barium will coat your bowel and allow it to be visualized. You will be required to assume different positions to help coat your bowel with the barium. Some air may be introduced to allow for better visualisation of your bowel, by distending it. It is advisable to drink lots of fluids after the examination, as the Barium mixture may cause slight constipation. Preparation: Nothing to eat or drink from midnight prior to your appointment. Barium Small Bowel Series. This examination studies your small intestine. During this examination, you will be required to drink a barium solution and radiographs will be taken at regular intervals to visualise the barium passing through. This can take some time. The examination finishes when the barium reaches your large intestine. Preparation: Nothing to eat or drink from midnight prior to you appointment. MCU (Micturating Cysto – Urethrogram). This is an examination to visualise the anatomy and the function of your bladder. During this examination, a catheter will be introduced into the bladder via the urethra. Water soluable contrast is passed through the catheter into your bladder. Some images are taken of the full bladder. You will be asked to pass urine into a bottle or pan. Images will be taken during urination. Preparation: Nil. IVP (Intra - Venous Pyelogram) This is an examination to visualise the anatomy and the function of your kidneys, ureters and bladder. This procedure involves an injection of a contrast medium into an arm vein. This medium will pass through your kidneys and into your bladder. After the injection of contrast you may get a warm feeling but this will pass. Preparation: You need to call into the department prior to your appointment to pick up a preparation kit. |
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URL: http://www.awh.org.au/services/imaging/Xray.htm |
