(3) The contrast medium should be prepared in accordance with established
routine or as prescribed by the radiologist. Some type of barium sulfate preparation is
usually used, but if perforation is suspected, an alternate non-barium sulfate radiopaque
should be substituted. A thin-water mixture usually contains the contrast medium and
water in equal parts by volume. A thick-paste mixture usually contains about six parts
contrast medium to one part water. A drinking tube or a spoon should be on hand to
administer the mixture to the patient while he is in the recumbent position.
c. Fluoroscopic Examination.
(1)
Upon reporting, the patient is dressed in a suitable gown.
(2) The examination procedure should be explained to the patient so that he
can cooperate.
(3) The patient is instructed (or assisted, if necessary) to take a position
between the table and the fluoroscopic apparatus. Whenever possible, the fluoroscopic
examination is started with the patient in the erect position.
(4) A preliminary screening of the area to be investigated is usually made by
the radiologist.
(5) At a given signal from the radiologist, the specialist hands the patient a
spoonful (or disposable cup, if a thin mixture is called for) of the previously prepared
contrast medium. If the patient is in the erect position, the specialist should show him
how to hold the cup so that it will not interfere with the free up-and-down movements of
the fluoroscopic apparatus. This phase of the procedure is illustrated in figure 2-1.
(6) The patient ingests the contrast medium and controls his respiration as
directed by the radiologist. The passage and behavior of the contrast medium is
observed fluoroscopically and recorded using spot, cine, or other recording media.
Figure 2-1. Patient in position for fluoroscopic examination.
MD0959
2-3