Fluoroscopy (also known as screening) is a real time x-ray often used to observe a particular function or to guide real time procedures. At Imaging Associates, we use fluoroscopy for many examinations.
Barium Meal
This scan is used to study the function of your digestive tract, and can show the oesophagus, stomach and small bowel processing a meal.
The process will require you to drink a cup of barium sulphate contrast (dye), which will enable our radiographer to see how your digestive tract is working. You may experience mild constipation following the procedure, so we recommend you drink plenty of water and eat a high fibre diet.
Barium swallow
This scan is used to study the function of your digestive tract. Using real-time x-ray, the scan is used to assess the eosophagus while swallowing.
The process requires you to consume a drink, during which real-time x-rays will be taken. This will produce a short video on a screen, showing your swallowing mechanism, oesophagus and stomach. We advise you to drink plenty of water following the examination.
What you need to know
Preparation
You will be required to fast for each of these scans, and the information regarding preparation will be given to you at time of booking. Please advise us if you are diabetic, pregnant or taking medications at the time of booking.
Time required
These scans take between 10-20 minutes.
Will I need an injection?
You will usually not require an injection for these scans.
Risks
A small amount of radiation is used in each scan, but this is minimal. For the Barium Meal scan, you may experience mild constipation in the days following the examination.
Results
The report from our radiologist will be forwarded to your doctor as soon as possible. If there are any urgent findings, a radiologist will notify your referring doctor immediately.
What do I need to bring?
- Referral from your doctor
- Medicare card (if applicable)
- Healthcare card/Pension card/Student card (if applicable)
- Previous x-rays/scans (if applicable)
What we need to know
Pregnant/Breastfeeding
Please advise us if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
Medications
Please advise us of any medications you are taking. They may affect the timing of your appointment.
Allergies
Please advise us of any allergies.