X-ray and fluoroscopic examinations

Notwithstanding the multitude of newly available procedures, conventional X-rays remain an important diagnostic tool. This tried and tested form of radiography produces fast, high-resolution images and is relatively inexpensive. X-ray examination is particularly well suited for examining bones, lungs (thorax), the heart and the abdomen. Conventional radiography only takes a few minutes.

X-rays penetrate the body and are absorbed to varying degrees depending on tissue density. Bones therefore appear white to grey, and the lungs, which absorb little radiation, appear dark.

Fluoroscopy, on the other hand, is better suited for examining internal organs and their movements, for instance to investigate the stomach, intestines, oesophagus, venous vessels or joints. In contrast to conventional X-rays, fluoroscopy involves the region of interest being continuously "fluoroscoped" by X-rays and displayed directly on the monitor. Fluoroscopic examination also provides information about mobile regions, such as the diaphragm, or, with an oral contrast agent, the oesophagus and the swallowing process.