What is C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy?
C-Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy is a radiology tool shaped like the letter C. Its use is needed in the surgical process to see images or objects, which can be seen directly by fluoroscopy. The images obtained are then displayed with the help of a monitor screen.
This tool is able to support the process of medical services and diagnosis of certain diseases, C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy is also an option for handling steps in supporting the healing of internal organ and bone diseases. With this tool, examinations in the body can be easily detected.
Why is C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy Used?
As in the previous review, C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy is useful for viewing objects or objects located inside the body. This tool makes it easier for the medical team to see directly. Uniquely, this machine can display objects in three dimensions, so they look more real from various positions.
This sophisticated tool is considered to be able to minimize errors in predicting the location of objects, diagnosing diseases or other medical procedures. C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy is able to support the process of internal body surgery and other medical procedures in real-time.
This can certainly support the surgical process carried out, so that it can run more easily, safely, comfortably, and the final results are accurate. So far, the C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy system can be used in two types of examinations, namely radiography and fluoroscopy.
In general, this machine is used to perform X-rays on patients with limited mobility. Here are some conditions that require the use of the C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy machine:
- Angiography or study of disorders and the level of damage to blood vessels that occur in certain areas in the body.
- Therapeutic studies, namely communication carried out in a planned manner to help the patient’s healing process.
- Heart studies, namely communication carried out in a planned manner to help the healing process of heart disease patients.
- Orthopedic procedures, which are procedures performed to treat disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves.
When to Perform C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy?
Actions that may require the use of this tool include:
- Orthopedic procedures. C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy procedure is performed on fracture patients before bone repair surgery is performed. The procedure is also performed during surgery to help the doctor place bone implants in the correct position.
- Gastrointestinal examination. The procedure is performed by administering contrast dye to the patient. The goal is to help observe the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, anus, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas in the process of digesting food.
- Cardiovascular procedures. Procedures are performed to assist during the heart and blood vessel procedures. These procedures usually aim to remove clots that block blood flow, cardiac angiography, or the placement of stents in blood vessels.
How to Perform C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy?
This tool aims to see images or objects from patients by means of fluoroscopy, so it can only be done in hospitals. The use of this tool is also carried out by doctors and medical personnel who are competent in their fields. Before conducting an examination, here are some things that need to be prepared:
- Drink more water.
- Remove all accessories attached to the body, such as bracelets, earrings or necklaces, and store them in a designated place.
- Using special clothing that has been prepared by the hospital.
- For abdominal examinations, it is best to fast the night before the examination.
In addition, before the examination begins, the doctor will administer a contrast dye. The form of administration of this substance varies, depending on the area to be observed, for example:
- Oral or taken orally. The purpose of administering this substance is to observe the condition of the esophagus or stomach. The liquid tastes unpleasant, so it sometimes causes nausea.
- Enema. This substance is given through the anus. Side effects can include discomfort and bloating.
- Injection. This substance is given by injecting it into the blood vessels. The fluid can help the doctor observe the condition of the gallbladder, urinary tract, liver, and blood vessels. Side effects that can be felt include a warm body and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Don’t worry, because there will be no pain during the examination process. After the contrast dye is given, the patient is asked to lie down in the place provided. From the control room, the doctor will ask the patient to direct his body to the machine.
In addition, the doctor will suggest other actions to the patient, such as changing positions or holding their breath. This is done only during the procedure. The length of time will depend on the part of the body being examined, as well as whether or not there are findings during the examination.
The procedure is generally done for 30 minutes. However, if a more in-depth examination is needed, such as a small intestine examination, then the time period becomes longer, which is around 2-6 hours.
Possible Side Effects
As with other medical procedures, C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy can pose risks to some people. This depends on the dose of radiation received by the patient. In complex interventional procedures with the installation of stents or other devices in the body, the dose of radiation received is relatively high.
In relation to this, the risks that could occur include:
- Radiation burns are burns to the skin and underlying tissue. These burns can heal on their own.
- The development of abnormal cancer cells due to radiation induction.
Examination using this tool is not without risk. Due to exposure to X-rays from the tool, several other health problems can arise. If you are a medical team, it is advisable to be outside the barrier used. It is okay to only be exposed to radiation occasionally.
It will not cause serious problems. However, if exposed to frequent and long-term frequencies, you are at risk of developing tumors or decreased sperm quality that can lead to infertility. However, the probability of effects on patients is very small.
However, the use of C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy is considered to have a greater radiation risk than its benefits. To minimize the risk, fluoroscopy should always be performed with the lowest radiation exposure, so that it can be tolerated by the body. The procedure should also be performed in the shortest possible time.
That is a complete explanation of the C Arm Radiography Fluoroscopy procedure. If you have any questions about the procedure, please ask a doctor.