The various procedures that we carry out at NM are
n Barium studies (Barium swallow, Upper GI series, Small intestinal studies, IC studies, Barium Enemas)
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n Intravenous urographic studies, cystograms, micturating cystourethrograms, retrograde urethrograms.
n Hysterosalpingography
n Sinograms/ Fistulograms
n Arthrograms
n Sialograms
n Dacryocystorhinograms
n Cavernosography
Equipment:
At NM Medical Centre, X-rays are taken on a high-powered, 700m A Philips X-ray unit, which has an image intensification system. The procedures are thus carried out without the room being darkened.
The average amount of exposure to an X-ray is very low and is well within the acceptable amount recommended.
Q. What does one do if an X-ray is required during pregnancy?
The X-ray technician should be informed and he should cover the lower abdomen with a lead apron. In case one's pregnancy status is unknown, it is still a good idea to ask for protective cover.
Q. Isn't barium awful to taste?
No at NM Medical Centre, it is pleasantly flavoured.
Q. How long does a barium test take to perform?
An upper G.I. series takes 30 minutes. A full study takes 3-4 hours.
Q. In these days of hi-tech investigations, are X-rays getting redundant?
No, X-rays are a very cost effective means of diagnosis, particularly where diseases of chest, bones & joints are concerned.
n No special preparation is required for X-rays except for procedures and X-ray of abdomen.
n For intravenous urography (IVU or IVP) 4 hours fasting is adequate.
n Appointments are generally given in the morning.
n It is advisable to take a mild purgative (Dulcolax) for a spine X-ray the night before in case of constipation to ensure adequate bowel preparation. This should not be taken however if appendicitis is suspected.
n Barium Enema studies are generally performed in the afternoon time as it is a time consuming procedure, requires privacy and does not require total fasting as the patient may have tea/coffee and something light to eat in the morning.
n For two nights prior to the study, a mild purgative (Dulcolax) is advisable. One day prior to the study, a total liquid diet avoiding all types of fatty food and milk products is to be taken all throughout the day.
n The preparation mentioned above is an ideal preparation. However in an urgent scenario where a barium enema is required, the patient may have a simple enema to evacuate the bowels and barium enema can be performed.
n Diabetic patients should take as early an appointment as possible and inform the centre of the same.
n For a HSG (Histro Salpingography) 3 hours of fasting is necessary. The X-ray should be performed on the 6th or 7th day of the cycle.
n It is advisable to come in comfortable clothing.
n Please bring along reports of any prior X-ray.
n X-rays can be harmful to the developing fetus in a pregnant lady. Therefore it is advisable for pregnant ladies to inform the doctor of their condition.
Note
If you have an appointment for only routine X-rays, it is advisable to take an appointment for the afternoon to ensure less waiting time.
