What to expect for your X-ray depends on the type of study your doctor has requested:
Arthrogram: A fluoroscopy procedure that uses iodine contrast media to produce a real-time image of your joint. Contrast media is injected into the joint space and allows your radiologist to better examine the anatomy and function of your joint. This procedure is often immediately followed by an MRI.
Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP): A procedure that is used to evaluate the overall health of your kidneys, ureters, and bladder. IVP uses iodine contrast medium that is injected into your vein. You may be instructed not to eat or drink the night before, or to take a mild laxative the evening before the exam.
Upper GI Tract X-ray: A fluoroscopy procedure that is used to evaluate the overall condition of your pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and first part of your small intestine. For this exam, you will drink a barium contrast medium that will show bright white on the X-ray image.
A separate but similar procedure called an esophagram may be ordered if your physician is mainly interested in the function of your esophagus. The exam should take 30 to 60 minutes.
Lower GI Tract X-ray/Barium Enema: A fluoroscopy procedure that uses barium contrast medium given rectally to evaluate the overall condition of your large intestine, also known as the colon.
The exam will last between 60 to 90 minutes and you will likely be repositioned numerous times to obtain images from different angles. Unless otherwise instructed, you may continue to take your pain medication or ibuprofen to control pain from movement during the exam.
Small Bowel Follow Through: A fluoroscopy procedure that uses oral barium contrast medium to produce a detailed image of your small intestine. This exam will take at least 90 minutes and up to four hours depending on the movement of the contrast medium through your organs.
Myelogram: A fluoroscopy procedure that uses contrast medium to produce a real time image of the space around your spinal cord, nerve roots. Contrast media will be injected to help your radiologist accurately evaluate the overall condition of your spinal cord, nerve roots and intervertebral discs.
A radiologist will interpret your images and send the results to the physician that ordered the procedure.