At Radiology Muskegon, we utilize fluoroscopic imaging to evaluate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, blood vessels, urinary tract and other internal structures. The primary use of fluoroscopy is imaging guidance during interventional procedures such as biopsies, joint injections, lumbar punctures, catheter/tube placement in the body and many other procedures requiring imaging guidance. Fluoroscopy is fast, painless and relatively safe and is performed at the Mercy Health Pavilion and at the hospital locations.
Where do I go for a fluoroscopy exam?
How do I prepare for a fluoroscopy exam?
What are the benefits and risks of a fluoroscopy exam?
What will I experience during a fluoroscopy exam?
How do I get the results of a fluoroscopy exam?
Are the costs of a fluoroscopy exam covered by insurance?
What is fluoroscopy used for?
Fluoroscopy is most often used to evaluate internal body structures offering a “live” X-ray look at the internal anatomy and its function. Excellent for evaluating certain body parts (such as the gastrointestinal tract) but is of limited value for evaluating other body parts. Fluoroscopy is most commonly used to diagnose a disease condition but it is also commonly used for diagnostic and therapeutic imaging-guided interventional procedures.
Where do I go for a fluoroscopy exam?
Fluoroscopy exams require an appointment and are typically performed at the Mercy Health Partners Health Pavilion. Diagnostic fluoroscopy and imaging-guided interventional procedures using fluoroscopy are also performed at our hospital locations.
How do I prepare for a fluoroscopy exam?
Prior to a scheduled appointment some preparation may be required. Patients may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a certain length of time prior to the exam, however taking daily medication(s) is usually recommended. Some gastrointestinal (GI) exams may require ingesting of an agent to empty the GI tract prior to the exam. Loose fitting clothing is recommended. Patients may be asked to change into a gown provided by the imaging facility, remove jewelry or empty pockets prior to the exam. Some exams require a radiology nurse to insert an IV for hydration purposes, intravenous injection of contrast material or injection of sedative medication.
What are the benefits and risks of a fluoroscopy exam?
Fluoroscopy exams are safe, easy and generally painless. Can often provide better diagnostic information than X-rays alone. The main risk of fluoroscopy is its use of ionization radiation to create images, the amount of radiation required varies depending upon the exam. Some imaging-guided interventional procedures using fluoroscopy can use significantly more ionization radiation compared with an X-ray alone which at higher levels can have detrimental effects on your health.
What will I experience during a fluoroscopy exam?
The vast majority of fluoroscopy exams are painless and well tolerated by patients. Some interventional procedures using fluoroscopy guidance can result in patient discomfort. The vast majority of fluoroscopy exams are tolerated well by patients.
How do I get the results of a fluoroscopy exam?
Exam results are usually available within 24 hours after the exam is performed. Once the exam is interpreted and reported by the radiologist, the exam results become immediately available for review by the requesting physician through the secure Mercy Health Partners patient portal system and the results become part of the patient’s permanent medical record. Patients can request a copy of their images at the performing imaging facility.
Are the costs of a fluoroscopy exam covered by insurance?
The majority of fluoroscopy exam costs are covered by private insurance plans and Medicaid/Medicare plans. Generally speaking, the cost of most fluoroscopy exams are low. At Radiology Muskegon, we strive to reduce unnecessary costs incurred by patients. There are options available to patients for financial assistance or reduced payment plan options if patients are not able to pay the costs of imaging.