Fluoroscopy and Interventional Procedures Flashcards

Which technique best describes digital subtraction angiography (DSA)?

Answer: A technique that electronically subtracts a pre-contrast mask image from contrast-enhanced images to isolate vessels

DSA acquires a baseline mask image before contrast injection, then electronically subtracts it from subsequent contrast-enhanced images, eliminating overlying bone and soft tissue to produce high-contrast images of vessels only.

What type of contrast medium is typically injected into the joint space during an arthrogram procedure?

Answer: Diluted non-ionic iodinated contrast medium

Diluted non-ionic iodinated contrast is preferred for arthrograms because it is well-tolerated within synovial spaces, causes minimal irritation, and provides adequate opacification of joint structures.

What is the primary clinical indication for hysterosalpingography (HSG)?

Answer: Evaluation of uterine cavity morphology and fallopian tube patency

HSG uses fluoroscopy and iodinated contrast to outline the uterine cavity and assess whether the fallopian tubes are open (patent), making it the primary imaging study in the evaluation of female infertility.

Into which anatomical space is contrast medium injected during a myelogram?

Answer: The subarachnoid space

Myelography requires injection of non-ionic iodinated contrast directly into the subarachnoid space where cerebrospinal fluid circulates, allowing the contrast to outline the spinal cord, nerve roots, and thecal sac.

During fluoroscopic procedures, what is the primary source of occupational radiation exposure for the radiographer?

Answer: Scatter radiation originating from the patient

Scatter radiation produced when the primary beam interacts with the patient's tissues is the predominant source of occupational dose for radiographers during fluoroscopy, making distance and shielding essential protective measures.

Which combination of protective equipment is recommended for radiographers working during fluoroscopic procedures?

Answer: Lead apron, thyroid collar, and leaded glasses

NCRP and ACR guidelines recommend a lead apron to protect the trunk, a thyroid collar to shield the sensitive thyroid gland, and leaded glasses when there is significant scatter to reduce lens dose during fluoroscopy.

What is the primary purpose of an ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) examination?

Answer: To visualize and treat the biliary and pancreatic ductal systems using both endoscopy and fluoroscopy

ERCP combines endoscopic and fluoroscopic guidance to cannulate, opacify, and treat the common bile duct and pancreatic duct, allowing diagnosis and management of biliary stones, strictures, and other ductal pathology.