X-Ray

BARIUM ENEMA (BE) Barium, which is a liquid contrast substance, is put into the large intestine (via the rectum) to visualize the entire large intestine to the point of the ileocecal valve (which is where the small intestine and the large intestine connect). It is very important to prep the patient properly due to the fact that the large intestine is filled with fecal material.

Fluoroscope machine used for Barium Enemas

CYSTOGRAM (BLADDER) Contrast is used to fill the bladder by injection or catheter (directly into the bladder, or into a vein and followed to the bladder) to highlight and delineate the bladder. When done with an IVP the contrast is injected into the arm. When done exclusively as a cystogram, the contrast may be introduced retrograde into the bladder.

CYSTOURETHROGRAM (VCU) To visualize bladder and urethra with contrast. Contrast is introduced directly into the bladder through the urethra or into a vein in the arm. X-rays are taken of the bladder and urethra as the patient voids.

ESOPHAGRAM (BARIUM SWALLOW) Contrast is given orally and followed down the esophagus to the stomach. Fluoroscopy allows the Rad to view the barium as it travels the esophagus and into the stomach. X-ray films are taken during the swallowing phase.

INTRAVENOUS PYELOGRAM (IVP) Contrast is injected into the vein of the arm. Several x-rays are taken at different projections when the contrast concentrates at the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The patient is then asked to empty bladder to determine whether the patient's bladder is functioning properly.

MYELOGRAM Only lumbar myelograms are performed in Fluoroscopy. If Iohexol myelography is needed, it is performed with CT to follow. Fluoroscopy is then scheduled for the injection component and CT is scheduled for the examination component. Contrast is injected into the lumbar (lower back) area to visualize various nerve roots and cord.

NEEDLE GUIDED ASPIRATION (Joint Aspiration) During this procedure accumulated fluids in the joint space is aspirated and/or the joint space is injected with steroids.

SMALL BOWEL Barium contrast is given orally. It is followed through the esophagus and stomach as it drains into the small intestine. After it drains into the small intestine the barium is followed until it completes the full course of the small intestine. The duration may vary with every patient.

UPPER GI (STOMACH OR SMALL INTESTINE) Effervescent tablets are given to patient to create air contrast. Barium is then given to the patient orally and the contrast is followed down the esophagus into the stomach. The stomach is examined and followed as it empties into the small intestine.

Overview

Preparation

Exam Descriptions

• Barium Enema
• Cystogram
• VCU
• Esophagram
• IVP
• Myelogram
• Aspiration
• Small Bowel
• Upper GI