Fluoroscopy isa method inspection X-rays to produce Sequel images resembling videos. This method is used to observe the condition of body organs directly (real time). Similar to CT scan, fluoroscopy usingradiance X-ray in catching picturer. However, pthe difference is The resulting fluoroscopy image has only one point of view.
There are various purposes for fluoroscopy. Among them is to establish a diagnosis of disease, examine conditions before and after treatment therapy, or to support the implementation of operations related to the gastrointestinal tract, heart, blood vessels, muscles, respiratory tract, bones, joints, lungs, and liver.
Usually fluoroscopy is combined with a contrast dye, which is a substance given to the patient to produce a clearer image and make it easier for doctors to distinguish an organ from the surrounding area. Contrast dye can be given by injection into the patient, taken by the patient, or inserted into the patient's anus.
Indications for fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy is used for several types of examination and treatment, such as:
- Orthopedic procedures.Doctors will use fluoroscopy to help observe the condition of the fracture before bone repair surgery is performed. In addition, fluoroscopy can also be used to assist doctors in placing bone implants in the right position.
- Gastrointestinal examination. In this procedure, the patient will be given a contrast dye orally to help observe the esophagus (esophagus), stomach, small intestine, large intestine, anus, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.
- Cardiovascular procedures. Fluoroscopy is used to assist surgical procedures on the heart and blood vessels, such as procedures to remove clots that are blocking blood flow, cardiac angiography, or implants. ring on blood vessels.
Warning Fluoroscopy
This procedure emits radiation. Exposure to X-ray radiation produced by fluoroscopy can affect the condition of the fetus. Therefore, pregnant women are not advised to undergo this procedure. In fact, it is recommended to avoid the fluoroscopy room during this procedure.
In practice, fluoroscopy often uses contrast, such as barium. This substance is given with the aim of making it easier for doctors to observe the condition of the organs, because the resulting images will become clearer. However, patients with a history of allergy to contrast agents should inform their doctor before starting fluoroscopy.
The use of contrast agents, especially by intravenous injection, should be avoided in patients who have the following conditions:
- Kidney failure
- Heart failure
- Multiple myeloma
- Narrowing of heart valves (especially the aorta)
- Diabetes
- Sickle cell anemia
In addition, for patients with or who have a history of kidney disorders, they must also inform their doctor about their condition, because contrast agents can affect kidney function.
Fluoroscopy preparation
The following are things that need to be prepared by patients before undergoing fluoroscopy:
- Drink more water.
- Remove all accessories attached to the body, such as bracelets, earrings or necklaces, and store them in the appropriate place
- Use special clothes that have been prepared by the hospital.
- For examination of the abdomen, do not eat or drink anything since the night before the examination.
Before the examination begins, the doctor will give you a contrast dye. The form of administration of this substance varies, depending on the area to be observed. Among others are:
- Oral or taken by mouth.Aims to observe the condition of the esophagus (esophagus) or stomach. This substance may taste bad or cause nausea.
- enemas. The dye in this form is given through the anus. Side effects can include discomfort and flatulence.
- Inject. A dye that is injected into a vein can help doctors observe the condition of the gallbladder, urinary tract, liver, and blood vessels. The side effects that patients may feel after being injected with this substance are a warm feeling and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Fluoroscopy Procedure
Examination can be carried out with two types of fluoroscope devices, namely non-movable (fixed or permanently installed fluoroscopic) or movable (mobilefluoroscopic). Non-transferable fluoroscopes are commonly used to support endoscopic procedures of the gastrointestinal tract (eg ERCP) or cardiac catheterization. Whereas mobilefluoroscopic commonly used for orthopedic procedures, such as observation of joints, bones, and implants or ESWL procedures. Example mobile fluoroscopic is a C-arm engine.
There is no pain during fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging. However, supporting procedures, such as injecting a contrast agent into a joint or vein, can be painful. In practice, the patient will be asked to lie down on the bed that has been provided. Then, the doctor will ask the patient to direct the part of his body to be observed to the fluoroscope, change position, or hold his breath during the procedure.
In certain cases, such as in the procedure arthrography (joint observation), the fluid in the joint will be taken before the contrast dye is injected into the patient. After that, the patient will be asked to move the joint so that the contrast dye can be spread throughout the joint.
The length of time a fluoroscopy is performed depends on which part of the body is being examined, as well as whether any procedures need to be performed. Generally, fluoroscopy examination only takes about 30 minutes. However, if an in-depth examination is required, such as an examination of the small intestine, it will take more time, which is about 2-6 hours.
After Fluoroscopy
After the examination is complete, the patient is usually allowed to go home. However, if an anesthetic is used, the patient is not allowed to drive until the effects of the anesthetic wear off. Therefore, it is better if the patient's family or friends take him home.
In certain procedures, such as cardiac catheterization, the patient will require hospitalization for recovery. Patients will also be asked to see a doctor again, if there are signs of infection at the site where the catheter was inserted, such as pain, redness, or swelling.
Fluoroscopy results can be out in 1-3 days. The doctor will determine the schedule for the next meeting to explain the results of the examination.
The patient can return to normal activities. Prioritize drinking lots of water, so that barium or the contrast agent used in fluoroscopy leaves the body. Consult a doctor to determine the daily intake of fluids needed.
Fluoroscopy risks
Fluoroscopy is an X-ray examination that exposes radiation. This procedure can trigger health problems, such as skin disorders and cancer, but the potential is relatively small and only occurs if done for a long time. In addition, the use of contrast dye in fluoroscopy has the risk of causing allergic reactions or impaired kidney function.
