Fluoroscopy (arthro and meal)
1. Description
To use the analogy already used in general radiology, comparing radiology to the camera, fluoroscopy is the video component (dynamic) of a very similar technology. This is comparable to the technology of a camera.
In effect, a radiation source also is used and directed toward the patient. In this case, one also stains the internal components to be studied with the help of a radiopaque material. It will absorb more radiation and provide an image in single or double contrast (if air is also added), to study better the structures to be analysed.
There is thus a dynamic concept in all of these studies, which is not found in general radiology. Because of this, the radiologist must be present during these procedures, because the final diagnosis will be based on the static images obtained and on the dynamic aspect observed during the examination.
2. To Expect
ARRIVAL
Upon arrival, you will need to register at reception and if it is your first visit here, open a file. You will need to bring with you a valid insurance card, as well as a medical prescription signed by your treating physician, containing your medical information (if it has not already been sent via Fax or internet). You are required to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment.
THE TEST
The test is very different, depending on whether the higher or lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract is studied.
- For upper studies (esophagus, stomach, duodenum and small intestine), you will need to drink a barium mixture. For studies of the esophagus and stomach, you will also be given effervescent granules to distend the organs to study with air. This provides a double-contrast image (barium and air). Subsequently, the technologist will place you in different positions to get the images required for the current study.
- In the case of lower studies (single or double contrast barium enema), a small cannula will be inserted in the rectum and a retention balloon inflated as needed. The radiologist will opacify and distend the colon with air as needed. You will also be placed in various positions on the examination table to allow us to properly image all colonic segments. An antispasmodic is usually injected to help reduce the abdominal cramps and discomfort that may result from this procedure.
In every case study with barium, it is important to drink plenty of water after the procedure to prevent constipation problems that may arise. Note that the stool will be whitish for days following these evaluations, until the barium is completely expelled from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
DURATION
Depending on the area x-rayed, the process may take from 5 to 30 minutes. Please allow at least an hour for the entire evaluation. Return to normal activities will depend on your tolerance to the test performed. It is not generally a problem in the case of upper studies. Allow a few extra hours in the case of a barium enema.
3. Appointment
This test is performed by appointment only.
Please contact us by telephone at 450-904-0404 or directly online, indicating the desired exam date. We will do everything in our power to accommodate your needs.
Please contact us by telephone at 450-904-0404 or directly online, indicating the desired exam date. We will do everything in our power to accommodate your needs.
4. Preparation
It varies according to the area studied (upper or lower).
Esophagus / Stomach / Small intestine
Fasting (do not drink, smoke or eat) from 10 pm (22 hours) the night before the exam.
5. Costs
All these tests are covered by the RAMQ. No additional fee is to be paid.
6. Results
Tests are generally interpreted on the same day and your physician will receive the results within 2 to 5 days. On request, a preliminary or priority handwritten report may be sent to the requesting physician.
Fluoroscopy (arthro and meal)
Exam duration: 30 minutes
Expenses covered by the RAMQ
-
1. Description
To use the analogy already used in general radiology, comparing radiology to the camera, fluoroscopy is the video component (dynamic) of a very similar technology. This is comparable to the technology of a camera.In effect, a radiation source also is used and directed toward the patient. In this case, one also stains the internal components to be studied with the help of a radiopaque material. It will absorb more radiation and provide an image in single or double contrast (if air is also added), to study better the structures to be analysed.There is thus a dynamic concept in all of these studies, which is not found in general radiology. Because of this, the radiologist must be present during these procedures, because the final diagnosis will be based on the static images obtained and on the dynamic aspect observed during the examination. -
2. To Expect
ARRIVAL
Upon arrival, you will need to register at reception and if it is your first visit here, open a file. You will need to bring with you a valid insurance card, as well as a medical prescription signed by your treating physician, containing your medical information (if it has not already been sent via Fax or internet). You are required to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment.THE TEST
The test is very different, depending on whether the higher or lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract is studied.- For upper studies (esophagus, stomach, duodenum and small intestine), you will need to drink a barium mixture. For studies of the esophagus and stomach, you will also be given effervescent granules to distend the organs to study with air. This provides a double-contrast image (barium and air). Subsequently, the technologist will place you in different positions to get the images required for the current study.
- In the case of lower studies (single or double contrast barium enema), a small cannula will be inserted in the rectum and a retention balloon inflated as needed. The radiologist will opacify and distend the colon with air as needed. You will also be placed in various positions on the examination table to allow us to properly image all colonic segments. An antispasmodic is usually injected to help reduce the abdominal cramps and discomfort that may result from this procedure.
In every case study with barium, it is important to drink plenty of water after the procedure to prevent constipation problems that may arise. Note that the stool will be whitish for days following these evaluations, until the barium is completely expelled from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.DURATION
Depending on the area x-rayed, the process may take from 5 to 30 minutes. Please allow at least an hour for the entire evaluation. Return to normal activities will depend on your tolerance to the test performed. It is not generally a problem in the case of upper studies. Allow a few extra hours in the case of a barium enema. -
3. Appointment
This test is performed by appointment only.
Please contact us by telephone at 450-904-0404 or directly online, indicating the desired exam date. We will do everything in our power to accommodate your needs. -
4. Preparation
It varies according to the area studied (upper or lower).Esophagus / Stomach / Small intestine
Fasting (do not drink, smoke or eat) from 10 pm (22 hours) the night before the exam. -
5. Costs
All these tests are covered by the RAMQ. No additional fee is to be paid. -
6. Results
Tests are generally interpreted on the same day and your physician will receive the results within 2 to 5 days. On request, a preliminary or priority handwritten report may be sent to the requesting physician.
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