Name of the Procedure:

Radiation Exposure or Exposure Time in Final Report using Fluoroscopy (RAD)

• Technical Term: Fluoroscopy with radiation dose documentation

Summary

Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses continuous X-rays to create real-time video images of the inside of the body. The procedure includes documenting the amount of radiation exposure or the duration of exposure for safety and diagnostic accuracy.

Purpose

This procedure helps visualize the movement of internal organs in real-time and guides various diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Documenting radiation exposure ensures patient safety and compliance with health regulations.

Indications

• Persistent pain or abnormalities requiring real-time imaging
• Guidance for catheter placements, joint injections, or biopsies
• Diagnosing conditions involving the digestive, urinary, or reproductive systems

Preparation

• Fasting may be required depending on the area being examined.
• Instructions on medication adjustments, especially if contrast dye is used.
• Pre-procedure imaging or lab tests may be necessary.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on an examination table.
2. A fluoroscopy machine is placed over the specific body area to be examined.
3. The procedure begins, and continuous X-rays are used to create live video images.
4. The radiologist or physician guides the examination or intervention using the live images.
5. Radiation exposure or exposure time is meticulously recorded for documentation.

Tools:

• Fluoroscopy machine
• X-ray compatible contrast dyes (if required)
• Catheters, needles, or other instruments specific to the intervention

Anesthesia:

• Local anesthesia may be used for certain procedures requiring intervention.

Duration

Typically ranges from a few minutes to over an hour, depending on complexity and purpose.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or specialized radiology center.

Personnel

• Radiologist or Interventional Radiologist
• Radiologic Technologist
• Nurses
• Specialized Technicians (if required)

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to ionizing radiation, though documented to minimize risk
• Allergic reactions to contrast dye (if used)
• Infections or bleeding in interventional procedures

Benefits

• Accurate, real-time imaging for diagnosis and treatment
• Minimally invasive guidance for procedures
• Immediate results aiding prompt decision-making

Recovery

• Generally, minimal recovery time is required.
• Post-procedure monitoring to observe for any immediate complications.
• Specific aftercare instructions if an intervention was performed.

Alternatives

• MRI or CT scans offering static images without real-time guidance.
• Ultrasound imaging, though limited for certain applications.
• These alternatives might lack the real-time visualization benefit or require different preparations.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel slight discomfort from lying still.
• Mild anxiety or discomfort with the positioning might occur.
• Pain management is generally minimal given the quick nature of the procedure, but local anesthesia can be applied if necessary.
• Assurance of minimized radiation exposure will be communicated to the patient.