Digestive fluoroscopy (barium swallow) in Brossard

What is digestive fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses continuous X-rays to produce video-like images. While a standard X-ray is like a camera that captures a still image, fluoroscopy works like a video camera that records movement.

To examine the digestive tract, a contrast agent is used, usually one based on barium. This radiopaque material strongly absorbs X-rays, making it possible to highlight the outlines of the organs it passes through. In some cases, air is added to obtain a double-contrast image. This technique makes it possible to visualize the surface of the digestive lining, its folds, and its irregularities, in order to study certain superficial structures.

Digestive fluoroscopy can be used to perform:

• A swallowing study, which evaluates how food passes from the mouth to the esophagus;

The radiologist is present throughout the exam to analyze the images in real time.

Why have a digestive fluoroscopy exam?

Your doctor may prescribe digestive fluoroscopy to investigate various symptoms or conditions affecting the digestive tract.

This exam is mainly indicated in the following situations:

• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), to identify structural or functional abnormalities that interfere with swallowing;
• Persistent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), to confirm reflux and assess its severity;
• Suspected hiatal hernia, to reveal an abnormal position of part of the stomach above the diaphragm;
• Postoperative digestive follow-up, to verify the patency and integrity of anastomoses (surgical junctions);

This exam often complements other investigations, such as gastroscopy or an abdominal CT scan, by providing information about how the organs function in addition to their morphology.

How should you prepare for a digestive fluoroscopy exam?

Preparation varies depending on the type of fluoroscopy prescribed.

For a swallowing study and an esophagogastric series, you must fast from 10 p.m. the evening before the exam, with no food or drink, including water. You are also asked not to smoke, as nicotine stimulates gastric secretion and may affect the results.

Remember to bring your medical prescription and valid health insurance card, as well as the results of any previous imaging exams. They will help guide the radiologist’s interpretation.

How do I book a digestive fluoroscopy appointment at Radiologie Dix30 clinic?

Digestive fluoroscopy is performed by appointment only. You can send your prescription by fax to 450-904-0405 or by email to info@radiologiedix30.com. Our team will schedule your appointment with you. For any other questions, contact us directly.

How does a digestive fluoroscopy exam work?

Digestive fluoroscopy is performed on an outpatient basis at Radiologie Dix30 clinic in Brossard. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time for reception check-in and to open your file if this is your first visit.

Here is how the exam takes place:

• Welcome and registration: you present your health insurance card and your prescription. Our team guides you to the appropriate imaging area;
• Preparation: depending on the area being examined, you may be asked to remove certain clothing and put on a gown. No metal objects should be kept in the area being X-rayed;
• Ingestion of the contrast agent: for upper digestive tract exams, you will swallow the contrast agent (generally a barium sulfate suspension) according to the technologist’s instructions;
• Image acquisition: the radiologist supervises the exam in real time from the control room. You may be asked to change position (standing, lying on your back, or oblique) in order to observe digestive movement from several angles;
• Duration: the procedure itself lasts between 5 and 30 minutes depending on the segment being examined. However, it is recommended that you allow at least one hour for the entire visit, including check-in and post-exam waiting time;
• Return to activities: resuming normal activities depends on the type of exam performed and your tolerance. The technologist will inform you of any instructions to follow after the exam, especially the importance of staying well hydrated to eliminate the contrast agent.

Cost of a fluoroscopy exam

Fluoroscopy is covered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). No additional fees are expected. Your valid health insurance card must be presented on the day of the exam.

Results

The exam is generally interpreted the same day by the radiologist. A detailed report is then sent to your referring physician within 2 to 5 days.