Fluoroscopy

Real-Time Answers: Fluoroscopy Imaging at Columbus Regional

Sometimes, seeing a single snapshot isn’t enough—especially when your doctor needs to observe how something works in motion. That’s where fluoroscopy comes in. This special type of imaging provides live, real-time X-ray video, helping providers diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions with greater accuracy and confidence.

At Columbus Regional Healthcare System, our Imaging Services Program offers safe, efficient, and expert-performed fluoroscopic procedures to support better outcomes for our patients.

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What Is Fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is a type of medical imaging that allows physicians to see moving structures inside the body, similar to an X-ray video. It’s often used to guide diagnostic tests or treatments and is especially helpful for evaluating how body systems function.

A fluoroscopy exam may be used to observe:

• Swallowing and digestion
• Joint motion (during arthrography)
• Bladder and urinary function
• Catheter or contrast dye movement during procedures
• Spinal injections or pain management therapies

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Common Fluoroscopy Exams

At Columbus Regional, our fluoroscopy services include:

• Upper GI series – to evaluate the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine
• Barium enema – to examine the colon and rectum
• Modified barium swallow – to assess swallowing function (often done with speech therapy)
• Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) – to study bladder function
• Arthrograms – to image joints using contrast dye
• Guided injections – for pain relief or diagnostic purposes

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What to Expect During a Fluoroscopy Exam

Most fluoroscopy procedures are outpatient and take 30–60 minutes depending on the exam. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• You may be asked to change into a gown and remove any metal objects
• In some tests, you may need to drink a contrast material (like barium), or it may be administered via injection or catheter
• You’ll be positioned on a special table under a fluoroscope—a machine that sends continuous X-ray beams
• A radiologist or technologist will guide you through the exam, sometimes asking you to move or hold your breath

You’ll be able to return to most normal activities shortly afterward unless otherwise instructed.

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Safe, Comfortable, and Collaborative Imaging

Fluoroscopy does involve low levels of radiation exposure, but at Columbus Regional, we follow strict safety protocols and use modern equipment that minimizes exposure while delivering high-quality images.

Our radiology team works closely with other departments—like gastroenterology, urology, orthopedics, and speech therapy—to ensure every fluoroscopic exam is well coordinated and tailored to your care plan.

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Why Choose Columbus Regional?

• Board-certified radiologists and experienced technologists
• Modern, low-dose fluoroscopy systems
• On-site coordination with referring physicians
• Fast turnaround of results to support timely treatment
• Compassionate care with clear communication every step of the way

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Clarity in Motion Starts Here

Fluoroscopy provides dynamic insight into your health—allowing your care team to observe, diagnose, and treat with accuracy. At Columbus Regional Healthcare System, we make advanced imaging accessible, comfortable, and patient-centered.

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Need a Fluoroscopy Exam? We’re Here to Help.

If your provider has recommended fluoroscopy or if you have questions about the process, contact the Imaging Services Program at Columbus Regional Healthcare System to schedule or learn more.