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X-Ray/Fluoroscopy

What is X-Ray?

X-Ray, also known as radiography, is the medical imaging method that is oldest and most familiar to the general public. It uses x-ray radiation to produce images of bones, joints and other internal soft  tissues or organs. Common uses include looking for fractures or signs of joint problems such as arthritis. Conventional X-Rays may also sometimes reveal signs of other internal conditions, such as heart problems, pneumonia or certain types of cancer; however, other imaging methods may be more effective in detecting cancer at its earlier and more treatable stages.

x-ray fluoroscopy

Your physician may order an X-Ray at RMI if a fracture or other problem in your bones or joints is suspected. As one of the fastest and easiest imaging methods, an X-Ray may also be used for an initial evaluation for other possible conditions, to help your physician decide whether a more detailed examination using other techniques is warranted.

X-rays are performed at: Lennon Rd-Flint, Villa Linde-Flint, Fenton, Grand Blanc, Davison, Lapeer, Novi, Royal Oak, and Southgate

What is fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is a live-action movie X-ray. It can allow radiologists to see inside of the body and guide placement of needles or instruments used in performing biopsies, joint injections or other interventional procedures.

Fluoroscopic examinations of the digestive system, known as “Upper GI” (upper gastrointestinal), “Barium Swallow” or “Lower GI” series use this technology coupled with ingestion are not currently performed at RMI.

In addition to fluoroscopy, other methods may also provide real-time image guidance including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), MRI and nuclear medicine. Your physician’s choice of image-guidance will depend on factors such as the purpose of the examination, your anatomy and medical history.

Fluoroscopy is performed at our Lennon Rd-Flint and Southgate locations.

Preparing for Fluoroscopy

For injection or biopsy procedures, please follow the instructions provided for preparation.

The following examinations (provided for reference only) are NOT currently offered at RMI, but require specific preparation to be performed satisfactorily:

  • Nothing to eat or drink after 10:00 p.m. the night prior to the exam.
  • Do not eat or drink anything until after your exam has been completed.
  • Necessary medications may be taken at least two hours prior to study with minimal sips of water.
  • Nothing to eat or drink after 10:00 p.m. the night prior to the exam.
  • Do not eat or drink anything until after your exam has been completed.
  • Necessary meds may be taken at least two hours prior to study with minimal sips of water.
  • This study may take several hours depending on your metabolism. Please plan accordingly.
  • Please click here to read and/or download the patient preparation instructions.
  • After reading, if you have questions about the preparation, please call our nurse at 810-720-7567.
  • Eat a light lunch the day before your exam. You may have clear liquids only for dinner and only water after dinner.
  • Drink a large glass of water at 2:00, 4:00, 8:00, and 11:00 pm.
  • At 7:00 PM drink one 10 ounce bottle of magnesium citrate (drink cold)
  • Nothing to eat or drink after midnight including gum or hard candy
  • No prep is needed
  • Suck on lemon drops OR candy the day of and prior to the exam
  • Make sure you are off any blood thinners for 5 days prior to the exam.
  • You must have a driver on the day of the exam to transport you.
  • Make sure to schedule your exam for 10 or 11 days after the first day of your last period.
  • Refrain from any sexual intercourse from the first day of your menstrual cycle until after your exam.
  • Notify RMI staff if you have any allergies to latex or contrast.
  • You may take ibuprofen prior to the exam to help ease any potential discomfort of the exam.
  • No preparation is necessary.

For more information about x-ray/fluoroscopy or other services offered by Regional Medical Imaging, contact us today!

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