Preparation for radiology

Preparations Before a Simple Radiograph

• It is preferable that the patient’s clothing in the area to be imaged does not contain any metal, beads, buttons, or prominent decorations.

• Carrying items such as bank cards, mobile phones, hearing aids, and other metal objects into the X-ray room is allowed.

• Except in specific cases like a KUB X-ray, there is no need for bowel cleansing or fasting.

• After the imaging is completed, the patient’s body does not retain radiation, and being near a pregnant woman poses no issue.

• At Tabesh Medical Imaging Center, a CD containing the radiograph images will be delivered to the patient about 5 minutes after the imaging is completed.

Preparations Before a Colon Transit Study (CTT)

• It is essential to avoid taking any laxatives for several days prior to and during the period the capsules are being consumed.

• These capsules are not absorbed and will pass through the body without any interaction, thus they do not interfere with medications.

• It is best to take the capsules at the same time each day. For example, if the patient’s appointment is on Thursday at 9:00 AM, the capsules should be taken at 9:00 AM starting from Saturday, then Sunday at 9:00 AM, and so on until Wednesday. On Thursday, the patient should visit Tabesh Medical Imaging Center for imaging.

• There is no need to fast on the morning of the imaging day.

• The patient’s diet during the capsule intake period should be their regular, balanced diet without any extremes.

Preparations Before an Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

To perform this imaging, the patient’s gastrointestinal tract must be free of gas and fecal matter. For this purpose, the patient must:

• Eat a light dinner the night before and avoid gas-producing and hard-to-digest foods.

• Obtain two bottles of castor oil from a pharmacy, mix with water or syrup, and drink them.

• Two hours after consuming the castor oil, take four bisacodyl tablets at 30-minute intervals.

• Chew two dimethicone tablets at 30-minute intervals.

• Refrain from eating food after consuming the tablets and castor oil.

• If the patient has a food or drug allergy, take three prednisolone tablets at 13, 7, and 1 hour before the imaging.

• On the morning of the appointment, chew two dimethicone tablets.

• Arrive at the radiology department on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before the scheduled time.

Important Notes

• In patients with a history of sensitivity to certain substances or foods, injection of contrast agents may cause a reaction. Therefore, such patients must inform the reception staff when booking the appointment to receive the necessary medications.

• Depending on kidney function, delayed images may be required until the kidneys are emptied. Patients should plan for the possibility of multiple visits.

• Walking and drinking fluids the night before the appointment help clear the gastrointestinal tract more effectively.

• Naturally, consuming gas-producing and hard-to-digest foods the day before can reduce image quality or even result in cancellation of the appointment.

FAQ

• Is this procedure painful?
  No. Only during IV insertion may the patient feel the usual minor pain in the hand area.

• How many times is the contrast injected?
  It is injected once in a sufficient amount. Only imaging is performed after that.

• How long does the imaging process take?
  Depending on kidney function, the process may take a minimum of 20 minutes to a maximum of 24 hours.

• Can I eat after the injection?
  After the initial imaging, with guidance from the radiology technician, the patient may have a light snack.

Preparations Before a Barium Swallow (Esophagography)

• The patient must fast for 2 hours before the imaging and arrive at the radiology department 30 minutes before the appointment.

• The patient should wear a plain shirt without buttons or beads.

Note:
In individuals at risk of gastrointestinal perforation due to trauma, surgery, or illness, swallowing barium powder is prohibited. In such cases, imaging is done with liquid contrast and fluoroscopy equipment.

FAQ

• Is the powder bad-tasting?
  No. The prepared solution does not taste bad.

• I have a medical condition and take medications. Will this powder interact with my medications?
  No. This powder is not absorbed by the body and does not interact with any medication.

• How many times should I swallow the powder?
  This depends on the patient’s issue and cooperation level.

• Do I need someone to accompany me?
  No. There is no need for someone to accompany the patient for this procedure.

Preparations Before a Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

• To eliminate the chance of pregnancy, the patient must abstain from intercourse after the end of menstruation until the imaging.

• It is better not to be hungry at the time of imaging.

• Arrive at the radiology department 30 minutes before the appointment to receive local anesthesia.

• If the patient is overly stressed, involuntary muscle contraction may occur, causing pain and discomfort during the injection. It is advised to trust the expertise of Tabesh Medical Imaging Center staff, share any concerns, and benefit from their counseling.

• Due to patient stress or blocked fallopian tubes, a muscle relaxant may be injected. This may cause mild dizziness, which is normal and will subside within a few minutes.

• All instruments used at Tabesh Medical Imaging Center are fully sterilized, eliminating any risk of disease transmission.

Post-Imaging Care

• Refrain from intercourse until spotting stops.

• Avoid heavy physical activities.

• Take the prescribed antibiotic as instructed.

FAQ

• Is this imaging painful?
  The patient may feel mild menstrual-like cramps during drug injection. The pain is completely tolerable and goes away after the injection.

• How long does the imaging take?
  Including the time for anesthesia and preparation, the entire procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes, which may slightly vary from patient to patient.

• Will there be bleeding afterward?
  Spotting for 1 to 2 days after the imaging is normal.

• Is it necessary to have someone with me?
  It is not mandatory, but for emotional support or help in purchasing supplies, having a companion is recommended.

• Can I drive after the imaging?
  Yes. After the imaging, the patient’s general condition will be normal, and activities like walking, driving, and shopping are allowed.

• Can my companion stay in the radiography room?
  Due to the use of X-rays, it is best for the companion to wait outside the radiography room.

• Does this imaging require anesthesia?
  General anesthesia is not required. The pain is fully tolerable under local anesthesia.