Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that generates a video-like sequence of the internal organs of the human body. It is used in a wide range of procedures, serving purposes of both diagnosis and treatment in medical science.
What is Fluoroscopy Used for?
Fluoroscopy relies on several brief but steady bursts of X-rays to produce real-time moving images of the human interior that physicians monitor. Fluoroscopy benefits healthcare providers by offering them exact information about the functioning of vital body processes.
The many advantages of fluoroscopy make it an important tool in medical imaging. It provides a detailed internal view of the many human organs and tissues, which is essential for proper understanding and treatment of underlying health conditions.
Fluoroscopy applications are largely considered in two vital areas:
- Diagnosis of diseases
- Aiding certain treatment procedures
Fluoroscopies serve diverse needs even within these two domains. Depending on the health condition, this imaging procedure can be performed across different medical departments.
The range of fluoroscopy uses in medical science covers the following areas pertaining to the human body:
- Cardiology
- Gastrointestinal/digestive system
- Gynaecology
- Orthopaedics
- Urology
Let us first understand the different categories in which fluoroscopy can aid diagnosis.
- Angiography. It is a test of the heart performed using medical imaging or fluoroscopy and mainly detects blockages of the arteries and their narrow parts.
- Barium Enema: Fluoroscopy applications encompass diagnostic procedures of both the large and small intestines. Barium enema helps detect abnormalities in the large intestine, i.e., the colon and the rectum.
- Barium Swallow: This fluoroscopy test checks for issues with the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is also called an esophagogram, and areas including the mouth, back of the throat, oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine are screened. Esophageal disorders and ulcers, as well as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), tumours, and structural problems in the GI tract, can be detected through this test.
- Cystography: This fluoroscopy test helps diagnose possible bladder problems. The particular term for the procedure is voiding cystourethrography, which is conducted to determine conditions like vesicoureteric reflux or the presence of a bladder leak in an individual.
- Fistulography: This involves fluoroscopy that is not specific to only a certain part of the human body. Fistulography is a special medical test that concerns any abnormal passage or opening, called fistula, between an organ and the body surface.
- Hysterosalpingogram: For determining issues of fertility in women, tests like hysterosalpingogram are conducted with fluoroscopy.
- Myelography: Fluoroscopy uses extend to visualising the musculoskeletal system through the procedure of myelography. Prevailing issues in the spinal cord, like injury, cysts or tumours, can be detected through it.
The many treatment processes that use fluoroscopy include minimally invasive procedures of treating fractures to more medically advanced surgery processes. Doctors rely on this imaging technique for performing therapy processes, such as:
- Biopsy: An invasive procedure to remove tissue or cells for medical testing.
- Cardiac catheterisation: A necessity to guide crucial medical procedures of angioplasty.
- Catheter insertion: Placement of catheters inside the body to drain fluid.
- Kyphoplasty: A procedure to treat compression fractures.
- Stent placement: Procedure where stents are planted within the body to open blocked blood vessels.
- Orthopaedic surgery: C-Arm fluoroscopy provides the premise for many orthopaedic procedures and surgeries.
Conclusion
The many fluoroscopy advantages are significant within the medical realm. Concerns about the potential risks of continuous exposure to X-rays are downplayed by its benefits. In any case, though, it is recommended to have a robust health insurance policy to cover medical costs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.