The Unique Advantages of Fluoroscopy ✨

If motion or an organ’s function needs to be assessed, the real-time, dynamic nature of a fluoroscopy gives it unique advantages over CT, MRI or X-rays for diagnosing patient conditions. It can evaluate abnormalities in ways that static images cannot. The following are common diagnostic fluoroscopy procedures available at Brookings Health System.

Upper GI Series

Barium swallow studies are a type of fluoroscopy that can help diagnose esophageal disorders, ulcers, hiatal hernia, GERD, tumors and structural problems in the GI tract. If patients experience problems with acid reflux, heartburn, chronic nausea or vomiting, frequent hiccupping or burping, or dysphagia, observing swallowing in real-time or seeing how contrast flows through the upper GI tract can help detect the root cause. 

Small Bowel Follow Through

Small bowel follow through is a type of fluoroscopy that can help diagnose inflammatory bowel disorders like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, colon cancer, polyps and abnormal twisting of the bowel. If patients experience abdominal cramps, chronic diarrhea, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits or persistent constipation, the clear silhouette of the large and small intestines provided by fluoroscopy can identify the problem.

Joints

Arthograms are fluoroscopy procedures that help identify causes of joint pain in hips, knees, shoulders, wrists, ankles and elbows. Contrast injected in the joint can show the condition of ligaments, tendons and cartilage. Arthrography can give insight into how the joint moves, helping pinpoint the cause of unexplained pain and stiffness. 

Female Reproductive System

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a fluoroscopy procedure that can help detect full or partial fallopian tube blockages as well as the size and shape of the uterus. Identifying scaring or abnormalities in the uterus or fallopian tubes can help diagnose a patient’s infertility or pregnancy problems.

Referring a Patient

To refer a patient for a fluoroscopy at Brookings Health System, please fax the order to Central Scheduling at (605) 696-8889. You may also send a scanned, signed order to BHSCentralScheduling@brookingshealth.org. Please make sure to include the patient’s name, date of birth, phone number, diagnosis, insurance authorization, physician signature and type of scan. Ordering questions can be directed to Central Scheduling at (605) 696-8888.

Refer a Patient

For more information:

Nicole Winseman, CNMT, CHT
Director of Imaging and Respiratory Services
(605) 696-8057
nwinseman@brookingshealth.org