Radiography Exam Fluoroscopy and Interventional Procedures 2

Question 1

Which contrast medium is most commonly used in a barium enema (lower GI series) procedure?

Accepted Answer

Barium sulfate suspension

Answer

Barium sulfate suspension is the standard contrast medium for barium enema procedures because it coats the colonic mucosa effectively, is radiopaque, and is safe in an intact bowel.

Question 2

What is the pharmacologic purpose of administering glucagon during a GI fluoroscopic examination?

Accepted Answer

To reduce peristalsis and decrease bowel motility for improved mucosal coating

Answer

Glucagon is a hypotonic agent that temporarily suppresses gastrointestinal peristalsis, allowing barium to coat the mucosal surface more uniformly and improving image quality during the examination.

Question 3

During a small bowel follow-through (SBFT), how frequently are radiographs typically obtained after the patient ingests barium?

Accepted Answer

Every 15-30 minutes until barium reaches the terminal ileum

Answer

Serial radiographs obtained every 15-30 minutes track the progression of barium through the small bowel, with imaging continuing until contrast opacifies the terminal ileum to confirm complete evaluation.

Question 4

What anatomical structures are primarily evaluated during a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG)?

Accepted Answer

The bladder and urethra during filling and voiding phases

Answer

A VCUG uses fluoroscopy and contrast to evaluate bladder morphology and urethral anatomy during filling and voiding, and is the study of choice for detecting vesicoureteral reflux.

Question 5

How does a double-contrast barium enema differ from a single-contrast barium enema?

Accepted Answer

Double-contrast uses barium and air together to better coat and distend the colon for mucosal surface detail

Answer

The double-contrast technique uses barium to coat the mucosal lining and insufflated air to distend the colon, providing superior visualization of small polyps and subtle mucosal lesions compared to single-contrast studies.

Radiography Exam Practice Test

Radiography Exam Practice Test

Radiography Exam Fluoroscopy and Interventional Procedures 2