n. the use of a *fluoroscope to visualize X-ray images. *Videofluoroscopy is synonymous with X-ray screening. It is valuable for observing moving structures (e.g. swallowed barium sulphate) or for guiding *interventional radiology procedures.
(arterial portography) n. an invasive imaging technique used to visualize the *portal vein. A diagnostic catheter is advanced to the superior mesenteric artery or splenic artery from the common femoral artery or radial artery. X-ray contrast is injected and images are taken as this passes through the artery and returns via the veins, to opacify the portal vein. The images obtained will show the portal vein on fluoroscopy. When it is combined with CT scanning (CT arterioportography), exquisite details of the portal vein and the liver will be obtained. As the liver is mainly supplied by the portal vein, this technique enhances the contrast of the normal liver and shows any abnormal areas very clearly. Tumours not seen on conventional CT scans are readily visible.... arterioportography
n. an image of the vena cava, either inferior or superior. After injecting a radiographic contrast medium in a peripheral vein, the vena cava can be imaged with X-rays (see fluoroscopy) while the contrast arrives. Alternatively, a catheter can be inserted into a vein and advanced to the vena cava, then the contrast medium is injected to image it. Noninvasive imaging with CT or MRI scan is possible, but the image quality is inferior to fluoroscopic imaging.... cavogram
(EVAR) a recently developed technique that involves the insertion of a covered metal *stent into an *aneurysm. The stent lines the aneurysm and thereby excludes it from the circulation, preventing further expansion and rupture. The delivery system containing the stents is introduced through the common femoral artery. *Fluoroscopy provides real-time imaging to guide placement of the stents and ensure they are in the correct anatomical position.... endovascular aneurysm repair
a branch of radiology in which complex procedures are performed using imaging guidance, which avoids patients having to undergo invasive surgery to achieve the same results. This is often termed ‘pinhole surgery’. Guidance is commonly by X-ray fluoroscopy, ultrasound, or computerized tomography, and recently also by magnetic resonance imaging. Procedures commonly performed include angioplasty and stenting of vascular structures, drainage of fluid collections or abscesses, stenting of obstructions to the gastrointestinal tract, embolization, cryotherapy, and radiofrequency ablation.... interventional radiology
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