[Dysphagia] Fluoro time and instructions

[edagd at ath.forthnet.gr (Lukas Dagdilelis)]

Hi,
As a radiologist performing MBS for the last 7 years, I try to limit the 
exposure time for anyone patient.
Fluoro time depends a lot upon the protocol you follow for the exam.. i. 
e . how many bolus consistencies you try and how many times each.
There are some guidelines to try to limit xray exposure time
1. Use of a switch that allows for triggering the x ray simultaneously 
with the video recording.
2. Pre-checked field focus with light field  for each bolus testing. 
This eliminates the time that is "wasted" , trying to focus on the 
anatomy of interest.
3. Tailoring the MBS procedure to the crucial questions that seek answer 
and not exceeding for "useless" diagnostic information. That needs close 
cooperation with team members.
4. Proper and stable (fixed) positioning  of the patient with the use 
of  indicated chair or trolley.

My personal median exposure time is limited to 2,5-3 min max  using the  
above  guidelines and  11 min are for sure  out of the  question.

Lukas Dagdilelis
Radiologist
Dysphagia Management Team
"G.Papanikolaou" Hospital
Thessaloniki
Greece
European Study Group of Dysphagia and Globus