Fluoroscopy examination and procedure

Check the patient instructions you received to see how to prepare for the examination or procedure. Some may not require any preparation, while others may require you to fast and/or undergo blood tests. 

Contrast agents may be used during the examination or procedure. You will be asked in advance about any allergies. If you have a known hypersensitivity to iodine-based contrast agents, inform your treating physician and the radiographer when you arrive for the examination. 

If you know or suspect that you are pregnant, inform your treating physician or at the latest when you arrive for the examination. 

• Patient instructions for examinations

Before the fluoroscopy examination or procedure, a nurse or physician will explain the process to you. 

The examination or procedure may involve the use of an iodine-based contrast agent administered intravenously (i.e. for vascular imaging), orally administered barium contrast (i.e. for gastrointestinal imaging), or drinkable iodine-based contrast (i.e. for swallowing function studies). For colon imaging, barium contrast may also be administered rectally. Intravenous contrast may cause a temporary sensation of warmth and a metallic taste in the mouth. 

You will lie on an examination table or stand in front of the imaging device. Procedures are usually performed in a lying position. Using fluoroscopy, the radiologist monitors the progress of the contrast agent or performs the procedure. X-ray images may be taken if necessary. A radiographer assists with preparations and supports the radiologist. 

The duration of examinations and procedures varies. Please allow enough time for your visit. 

Watch the video: How the gastrointestinal tract can be examined. The video is produced by OYS and includes subtitles in Finnish and Swedish. 

Watch the video: Palatal function examination. The video is produced by OYS and includes subtitles in Finnish and Swedish. 

Many fluoroscopy examinations do not require special aftercare. If aftercare is needed, you will receive separate instructions. Fluoroscopic procedures usually require aftercare, which depends on the procedure. Aftercare instructions will be provided by the radiology department or the unit treating you. 

Intravenously administered iodine contrast agent is eliminated from the body via the kidneys. If kidney function is impaired, elimination may be slower. Kidney function may be assessed in advance with a blood test if necessary. Barium contrast is eliminated from the body through stool. 

The radiologist will provide a report on the fluoroscopy examination or procedure. This report will be sent to the physician who referred you for the examination and them will inform you of the results and discuss further treatment. Contact your care unit if you do not have a scheduled appointment or call time. 

The process, duration, and radiation dose of the examination or procedure depend on what is being examined or done. The number of X-ray images taken may vary, and fluoroscopy time can range from a few seconds to several minutes. Accordingly, the radiation dose also varies. 

Contrast agents or other substances used may occasionally cause allergic reactions. Staff will always ask in advance about any allergies. If allergic reactions occur, the unit performing the examination is prepared to treat them. 

In fluoroscopic procedures, injections may carry a risk of bleeding. Therefore, you may be asked to temporarily discontinue blood-thinning medications. You will receive separate instructions about this from the physician who referred you. You can ask your physician or the person performing the fluoroscopy examination or procedure about any risks.