What is X-ray and fluoroscopy imaging?
X-ray imaging, also known as radiography, uses electromagnetic waves as well as a very small dose of ionizing radiation to create static pictures of the body's internal structures.
As the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging, X-rays are often used to diagnose fractured bones, detect injuries or infections and locate foreign objects in soft tissue. Some X-ray exams may use an iodine-based contrast material or barium to enhance the visibility of specific organs, blood vessels, tissues, or bones.
Fluoroscopy, by contrast, uses X-ray technology to capture a moving video image of these same structures. These types of imaging are used to get a detailed view of internal systems, such as the digestive, urinary, reproductive, respiratory, or skeletal system.
The type of X-ray or fluoroscopy procedure ordered will depend on the systems or parts of the body that your care team wants to see in greater detail.
Arthrography
To get a better look at a joint like your knee or shoulder, arthrography imaging may be used. Contrast dye is injected into the joint and a series of X-rays are taken featuring the joint in different positions.
Barium Studies
To diagnose issues in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract, your provider may recommend a barium X-ray. When mixed with water, barium — a chalky white powder — becomes drinkable and as it travels through your GI tract, X-ray images will show the path (shape, size, contours, etc.) it takes.
General Fluoroscopy Studies
When your provider needs to see a detailed X-ray in motion instead of a static picture, they will order a fluoroscopy. Fluoroscopy is a type of medical imaging that shows a continuous x-ray image on a monitor – like an x-ray movie. During a fluoroscopy procedure, an x-ray beam is utilized to take a continuous image so that movement of a body part, instrument or a contrast medium can be seen in detail. Often used to evaluate areas like your bones, muscles and joints.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) uses a fluoroscope X-ray with contrast dye for a closer look at the structure and shape of the uterus, openness of the fallopian tubes and to identify any scarring in the uterus or abdominal cavity.
Myelogram
The myelogram X-ray imaging test, which uses contrast dye injected into your spinal canal through your lower back, can reveal issues that a standard MRI or CT scan might miss.
How does an X-ray work?
As an X-ray beam passes through your body, the body tissues and bones absorb and/or block the beam in varying amounts depending on its density. This creates a shadow that is picked up on film or a sensor placed on the opposite side of the beam— much like when you hold a flashlight up to your hand and cast a shadow on a wall.
What does an X-ray show?
On an X-ray, bones appear white, air appears black, and muscles / soft tissues appear grey. X-ray is used to detect bone fractures, arthritis, scoliosis, tumors, osteoporosis, fluid in the lungs, and infection.
What conditions do x-ray and fluoroscopy imaging help diagnose?
An X-ray or fluoroscopy procedure is used to help detect, diagnose, and guide treatment for a wide variety of conditions. For instance, it may be used to diagnose any open blocked coronary arteries or assess the spinal cord after surgery.
Some of the most common disorders or conditions this technology is used for include:
How should I prepare for an X-ray or fluoroscopy?
You should wear loose clothing and remove all objects that would get in the way of the X-ray, such as hairpins or jewelry. You may need to change into a hospital gown depending on what area of your body is being imaged.
What should I expect to happen during an X-ray or fluoroscopy?
You will be positioned in front of the x-ray machine. The technologist will leave the room or stand be- hind a barrier when the picture is taken. You will be asked to hold your breath before each picture.
Pictures may be taken from different views (e.g., front and side) or from different body positions (e.g., flexion and extension).
During a fluoroscopy procedure, an x-ray beam is utilized to take a continuous image so that movement of a body part, instrument or a contrast medium can be seen in detail.
What are the risks of X-rays?
X-rays expose you to a small amount of radiation—about the amount you get from a cross-country flight. The amount of radiation in an X-ray is too small to cause you any harm. Radiation in large doses can cause cancer and birth defects. Inform the doctor if you are or may be pregnant.
What happens after an X-ray or fluoroscopy?
After your X-ray or Fluoroscopy procedure, the images are reviewed by a board-certified radiologist. They interpret the images to diagnose any abnormalities or conditions and a written report is generated that will go to your doctor. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you and recommend any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the findings.