What Is A Fluoroscopy Radiologic Technologist?

Recently, a list of fluoroscopy radiology training programs was posted on this site. However, the concept of a fluoroscopy radiologic technologist was not well explained. This post aims to clarify what the role and responsibilities of this position are as well as discuss possible future avenues for the field.

What is a fluoroscopy radiologic technologist?

The question is not a simple one to answer. Like a diagnostic radiology technician, they assist radiologists in producing imaging of patients. However, fluoroscopy typically involves using a radio-opaque contrast inside the gastrointestinal tract in order to visualize pathology. Specifically, the patient is asked to ingest a white, not-too-pleasant tasting substance, and then is placed on tilt table on which they can be swiveled and rotated while images are taken. The rotations help the dye move within the GI tract and produce the appropriate image. Contrast can also be introduced per rectum.

What is the role of a fluoroscopy radiologic technologist during these procedures?

The technologist will be responsible for preparing the contrast medium, as well as prepping the patient for the procedure. They may also be responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the equipment used within the fluoroscopy suite. However, the future for fluoroscopy radiologic technologists may be changing. A recent study in the American Journal of Roentgenology looked at the possibility of having technologists acquiring the images themselves, without the involvement of radiologists. Here is what the study showed:

RESULTS. For the double-contrast barium enema examinations, no statistically significant differences were found between the technologists and residents for amount of barium used, degree of distention, cecal opacification, and quality of spot radiographs. The technologist-performed examinations had a statistically significant lower mean fluoroscopy time (3.2 min, compared with 4.0 min for staff radiologists and 5.7 min for residents). For the esophagrams, no statistically significant differences between technologists and residents were found for single-contrast esophagrams; radiographs of the gastric cardia; assessment of motility, reflux, and transit of a solid bolus; and fluoroscopy time. Double-contrast esophagrams obtained by technologists received a better mean score than did those of the residents.

CONCLUSION. Radiology technologists can be trained to perform high-quality esophagography and double-contrast barium enema examinations without an unacceptably high radiation dose.

Source: http://www.ajronline.org/cgi/content/full/175/5/1449

Based on these results, it is important to acquire the best training possible in order to be able to take advantage of such opportunities, should they ever present themselves. Taking on more responsibilities in general translates to not only higher compensation but also increased job security. Although the fluoro suite may be dark, the future for fluoroscopy radiologic technologists looks bright.