Fluoroscopy in Radiology

Fluoroscopy in Radiology

Definition

• Fluoroscopy is a type of medical imaging that uses continuous X-ray beams to guide diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Principle

• Fluoroscopy works by transmitting X-ray beams through the body, which are then detected by a digital image receptor or an image intensifier.
• The resulting images are displayed on a monitor, allowing the operator to visualize internal structures in real-time.

Applications

• Guiding interventional procedures:
  • Angiography and angioplasty
  • Biopsy and tumor treatment
  • Pain management procedures
• Diagnostic imaging:
  • Swallowing studies (e.g., barium swallows)
  • Upper GI series
  • Voiding cystourethrograms
• Orthopedic and musculoskeletal procedures:
  • Guiding joint injections and aspirations
  • Reduction of fractures and dislocations

Advantages

• Real-time imaging allows for precise guidance during procedures
• Enables dynamic assessment of anatomical structures and physiological processes
• Can reduce procedure time and radiation exposure

Limitations

• Higher radiation exposure compared to other imaging modalities
• Requires specialized equipment and trained operators
• Image quality may be affected by patient size, motion, and anatomical complexity

Radiation Safety

• Fluoroscopy operators must follow radiation safety guidelines to minimize exposure to patients, staff, and themselves.
• Techniques to reduce radiation exposure include:
  • Using lowest possible X-ray beam intensity
  • Limiting fluoroscopy time
  • Using shielding and Protective Equipment

Digital Fluoroscopy

• Digital fluoroscopy systems use digital image receptors and computer algorithms to process and display images.
• Advantages over traditional fluoroscopy:
  • Improved image quality and resolution
  • Reduced radiation exposure
  • Ability to store and review images electronically

Fluoroscopy in Radiology

Definition

• Uses continuous X-ray beams to guide diagnostic and therapeutic procedures

Principle

• Transmits X-ray beams through the body
• Detects X-ray beams using a digital image receptor or image intensifier
• Displays images on a monitor for real-time visualization

Applications

• Guides interventional procedures: angiography, angioplasty, biopsy, tumor treatment, pain management
• Used for diagnostic imaging: swallowing studies, upper GI series, voiding cystourethrograms
• Guides orthopedic and musculoskeletal procedures: joint injections, aspirations, fracture reduction, dislocation reduction

Advantages

• Real-time imaging for precise guidance
• Enables dynamic assessment of anatomical structures and physiological processes
• Reduces procedure time and radiation exposure

Limitations

• Higher radiation exposure compared to other imaging modalities
• Requires specialized equipment and trained operators
• Image quality affected by patient size, motion, and anatomical complexity

Radiation Safety

• Operators must follow radiation safety guidelines to minimize exposure
• Techniques to reduce radiation exposure: lowest X-ray beam intensity, limited fluoroscopy time, shielding, and protective equipment

Digital Fluoroscopy

• Uses digital image receptors and computer algorithms for image processing and display
• Advantages: improved image quality, reduced radiation exposure, electronic image storage and review