Why and how is fluorography done
Fluorography is a diagnostic method that allows you to obtain images of organs and tissues using X-rays. The procedure is carried out as part of a routine check-up, as well as on the doctor's prescription. Why do fluoroscopy once a year, read on.
There are several types of research. Thus, a distinction is made between close-up (picture size 100x100 mm or 70x70) and small-frame fluorography (pictures 35x35 mm or 24x24). The latter is used in the presence of inflammatory processes during tuberculosis and during preventive examination. To detect more serious diseases, close-up fluorography is usually prescribed.
What the fluoroscopy image shows:
- changes in lung tissue;
- inflammatory processes in the lungs;
- presence of neoplasms;
- diseases of the heart and large blood vessels;
- pulmonary tuberculosis.
Deciphering the research results is usually done by a radiologist.
Research methods
Depending on the equipment and technology, film, digital method and digital chest scanning are used in medical centers and district polyclinics.
How fluorography is done
Film fluorography is the most common method, in which X-rays fall on the film of a screen located behind the patient. Disadvantages of such an examination include high radiation exposure (0.5 mSv), low image quality, and long duration of obtaining results.
Digital fluorography is a more modern examination method based on the principle of a digital device. Digital fluorography is prescribed more often for children. Its advantages: small radiation load (0.05 mSv), affordable price and high-quality images. The latter are received in digital format and stored in the computer memory. They can be printed or sent by e-mail.
Digital scanning of the chest - fan-shaped passage of rays with their registration on a special matrix. The advantage of scanning is the minimal dose of radiation exposure. However, this method is considered less informative than digital fluorography.
On our website https://dobrobut.com/ you can find out how much the procedure costs and what methods are used in the clinic. After the examination, the patient will receive a full transcript of the results and answers to his questions. By the way, if necessary, the specialist will explain how X-ray differs from fluorography.
Why should fluorography be done once a year
Even if you do not belong to the risk group, doctors recommend having a fluoroscopy once a year. This should be done primarily with the method of diagnosing malignant lung tumors, tuberculosis and other dangerous diseases in the early stages. As you know, it is always easier to treat the disease in the early stages. In addition, this method can be used to determine changes in lung tissue, the presence of adhesions and fibrosis. We would like to remind you that you can find out about the operation mode of the x-ray room in the polyclinic by calling the registry on working days from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Preparation and conduct of fluorography
As mentioned above, the procedure is highly informative and has a number of advantages, among which it is worth mentioning painlessness, non-invasiveness and an affordable price.
This study does not require special training. The only recommendation would be to refrain from smoking for several hours before fluoroscopy and to have a light breakfast. The maximum examination time is 5 minutes.
Stages of examination:
- the patient enters a special room and undresses;
- then he approaches the apparatus and stands on the step, the chin is located in a special recess;
- the patient is asked to hold his breath (the picture is taken with the maximum amount of air in the lungs);
- the nurse turns on the device;
- procedure completed.
In some cases, a protective apron is used during the examination. The interpretation of the fluoroscopy results is usually ready the next day.
Indications and contraindications to the study
Absolute contraindications to fluorography are children's age (up to 15 years), severe form of respiratory failure and the impossibility of staying in an upright position (recumbent patients). They also do not do fluoroscopy during pregnancy at any term. Fluorography is prohibited during breastfeeding. In this situation, it is advisable to use radiography, which has a lower radiation load and is more informative than fluorography. Indications for X-ray examination of pregnant women are determined only by the doctor.
They also do not do fluorography during pregnancy. In exceptional cases, this method can be prescribed only after 25 weeks, when the main systems of the fetus are already established. If you are worried about the question "is it possible to do fluorography for breastfeeding mothers", let us reassure you - it is definitely possible. In which cases it is necessary, the doctor decides.
Indications for the examination are: preventive examination once a year, conscription into the army, suspicion of an inflammatory process in the lungs (urgent fluorography is necessary), contact with a tuberculosis patient, suspicion of HIV infection, as well as cohabitation with a pregnant woman or newborns.
What is the difference between X-ray and fluorography
Fluorography is a cheaper method compared to X-ray. The film used in the latter case is quite expensive, and for fluorography it is needed many times less. It is also worth reminding that special devices are used during the development of X-ray images, and each of them is processed individually. During fluorography, the film appears directly in the roll. It turns out that fluorography is a more affordable method. It is prescribed as part of a professional examination. If the doctor needs a more informative picture to clarify the diagnosis, then, of course, X-ray is preferred. It is also used to track the dynamics of the pathological process. We recommend that you find out in advance the addresses where you can quickly get a fluoroscopy.
To do fluoroscopy or not - everyone decides for himself. However, remember that fluorography is a painless and non-invasive examination method that will allow you to detect the disease "in the bud" and effectively treat it.
Related services:
Family doctor's consultation
X-ray diagnostics
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