CRL Imaging
Comfort. Consultation. Care.
CRL Imaging delivers quality outpatient radiology services in three
convenient locations. We collaborate with referring physicians to
provide timely patient diagnoses, appropriate interventions and innovative
treatments. The CRL Imaging centers in Edina, Plymouth,
and Southdale offer
an array of imaging services such as MRI,
CT
scans, mammography, general
x-ray, ultrasound, bone
density scans, fluoroscopy, nuclear
medicine, and
pain
management injections.
CRL Imaging offers same-day appointments, a comfortable environment and quality staff that will take care of your needs. Contact us to find out more about your appointment.
Fluoroscopy
About the Procedure
Fluoroscopy provides a way to observe the internal structure of the body with real-time X-rays taken with a fluroscope camera. Generally, fluoroscopy is used for contrast studies of the stomach and bowels and for imaging and guidance studies of the
veins and arteries.
Preparation
Your preparations for the procedure, if any, will depend on the type of procedure you are having. Your physician or nurse will let you know in advance.
During the Procedure
You will lie on a padded table. Radiology technologists will move the fluoroscope camera for various views. Depending on the type of procedure you are having, you might be sedated.
After the Procedure
Probably no restrictions, unless you had an interventional procedure which may require observation of and temporary pressure on the insertion site.
Follow-Up
The radiologist will interpret the fluroscopic images and relate the findings to your physician who will discuss them with you.
Fluoroscopy - Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
About the Procedure
The Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) can help your physician diagnose abnormalities of the uterus and fallopian tubes. It includes taking a moving x-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes after dye has been passed into these organs.
Preparation
Two days before your exam, an oral antibiotic is recommended. A prescription will be given to you or called in to your pharmacy.
On the day of your HSG, we advise you to take an analgesic 45 minutes before the x-ray to help relieve the minor discomfort associated with the procedure.
During the Procedure
The procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
You will lie on your back with your knees raised. A speculum will be inserted into the vagina, and a long, narrow catheter inserted through the cervix.
Dye is slowly inserted through the catheter and x-rays are taken.
After the Procedure
You might feel slight cramping, lightheaded or have an upset stomach for a brief time following the HSG. You might also have some bleeding and discharge for a few hours after the procedure.
If you have pelvic pain, discharge or fever 24 hours after the procedure, please call your physician.
Follow-up
Your exam will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist of CRL Imaging, who will report the results to your physician.
Fluoroscopy - Colon Study
Viewing the Colon
The American Cancer Society estimates one out of 18 people in this country will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime.
With regular screening, colorectal cancer can be detected early, when treatment is most effective. In many cases, screening can prevent colorectal cancer by finding and removing polyps before they become cancer. And if cancer is present, earlier detection means a chance at a longer life.
A physician may order a colon exam which may also be referred to as a lower GI (gastrointestinal) or Barium Enema examination to look for inflammation, benign tumors, cancer, or signs of certain other intestinal illnesses.
At CRL Imaging, our team of professionals performs colon studies to provide the best imaging possible to identify intestinal illnesses and help people heal with greater comfort, fewer complications, less risk and better results. A physician’s referral is required.
About the Procedure
Fluoroscopy uses x-rays to capture a moving image of an organ while it is functioning and is an effective way to view the body’s lower GI tract (colon & rectum).
Because tissues of the lower GI tract are similar in density, liquid barium—a dense, non-absorbable solution—is used to coat the lining of the rectum, colon, and a part of the lower small intestine. This produces a sharp, well-defined image. Air may also be introduced into the colon to enhance images.
Preparation
After your exam is scheduled, you will receive detailed instructions to help you prepare for the exam. It is important that you follow these directions carefully.
Generally you will be asked to follow a clear liquid diet for one or two days before the exam. Because a clean and empty colon is essential, you will be using laxatives and/or suppositories prior to your exam.
This preparation enables you to clean out the lower bowel without the inconvenience of taking an enema. Drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day for two days prior to the examination is the most important part of the preparation. The laxative pills are only effective with water, and fluid also cleanses the bowel. Without this amount of fluid in your system, the examination will be unsatisfactory and may have to be repeated.
During the Exam
A Colon examination takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Once you arrive at the imaging center, you will be asked to change into a gown and to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, or any metal objects that could obscure the images.
You will be positioned on the x-ray table, and a preliminary film will be taken to check for the adequacy of bowel preparation. Then, contrast material (barium) will be introduced through a rectal tube into the colon and monitored by the radiologist using fluoroscopic visualization. The radiologist will palpate the abdomen during the exam. You might be repositioned frequently to capture views of the colon from several angles.
As the barium fills your colon, you will feel the need to have a bowel movement. You may feel abdominal pressure, or even minor cramping. These are common sensations, and most people tolerate the mild discomfort easily. The tip of the enema tube is specially designed to help you hold in the barium. You should never experience severe discomfort. If you are having trouble, let the technologist or radiologist know.
Once the x-ray images are completed, the barium is drained back into a bag. Any remaining barium can be expelled in the restroom.
After the Procedure
You are able to return to a normal diet and activities immediately after the exam. Your stools may appear white for a day or so, as your body clears the barium liquid from your system. You will be encouraged to drink additional fluids for 24 hours after the examination. You will also be given Milk of Magnesia to take later that same day.
After a barium enema, some people experience constipation. If you do not have a bowel movement for more than two days after your exam, or are unable to pass gas rectally, call your doctor promptly. You may need an enema or laxative to assist in eliminating the barium, and your doctor will prescribe the right solution for you.
Follow-up
A board certified Radiologist from CRL Imaging will perform and interpret the exam and provide a report to the referring physician, who will in turn inform you of the results. All written reports will be available to the referring physician within 24 hours. Any significant finding requiring immediate attention will be called to the referring physician the day of the exam.
