Fluoroscopy

Many fluoroscopy exams, such as bone and chest x-rays, do not require any preparation. The exceptions include Upper GI and Upper GI/Small Bowel, Esophagram and Modified Barium Swallow studies. These studies require your child to either drink a special “contrast” for the exam or have an NG tube placed. To prepare for these tests, please see below. 

Modified Barium Swallow

• All ages: Nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours before the test.

Upper GI, Upper GI/Small Bowel Follow Through, and/or Esophogram

• Ages 0-4 years: Nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours before the test.
• Ages 5 and up: Nothing to eat or drink for 8 hours before the test.

NG Tube Placement

To limit radiation exposure and maintain image quality, an NG or naso-gastric tube (tube that temporarily goes into the nose and down to the stomach to give contrast for the test) will be placed in very young patients in the Radiology exam room prior to an Esophagram or Upper GI/Small bowel follow through due to normal lack of cooperation. The tube will allow for controlled administration of the oral contrast with reduced fluoroscopy time, reduced radiation exposure and ensures a high-quality examination. 

Your young child will be secured safety in preparation for the Fluoroscopy exam. You will be able to help with this part of the exam.

• For the duration of the exam, your child will be secured using soft Velcro “seat belts” and a special board that ensures your child is still and safe, so that the best images can be obtained. 
• The nurse will assist the Radiology provider to measure for proper tube placement. Your child’s head must remain still for the placement of the tube.
• There will be clear lubricant on the end of the tube to help the tube to slide into the nose.
• Once the tube is in the proper place, the nurse will listen to your child’s belly and the tube will be taped to ensure it stays in place for the exam.
• The radiology team will then give the contrast (liquid used to be able to see the digestive tract) into the tube for the exam.
• The Radiology provider will then take several x-ray images.
• Once the radiology provider determines that the test is complete, the NG tube will be removed.

Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG)

What is a VCUG?

A Voiding Cystourethrogram or “VCUG” is a test that can show problems with the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra. There are not special preparations unless the VCUG is scheduled with another xray.

What happens during the test?

Your child will lie on his or her back on the x-ray table. A nurse will place a small, soft tube into the bladder. A special liquid (contrast) will be put into the bladder using this tube. When the bladder is full, the x-rays will be taken. After the x-rays are done, the tube will be removed and your child will be asked to empty their bladder. One person (not pregnant) can stay in the room while the VCUG is being done.

What happens after the test?

• The tech or nurse will give you any special instructions before you leave.
• Your child may eat as usual, unless your doctor tells you not to feed them.
• The results of the VCUG will go to your doctor.
• The doctor will then call you with the results.

Who can I call with questions?

If you have any questions, please call or text 865-541-8116 to speak with a member of the Radiology or Sedation team.

Someone from our Radiology team will call or text to confirm your appointment and answer any questions you may have regarding your appointment. If you have any questions, please contact us at 865-541-8116.

You can also see these instructions and more information here about Imaging and Radiology at East Tennessee Children's Hospital.