Question about flouroscope

Joyce in VA · November 21, 2005

Could anyone please explain exactly what the process is when getting a fill under flouroscope and what the price range is for getting this done. Thanks.

lucartwlucy · November 21, 2005

i trie to explain to you i better to do ajusment umder fluoroscopy because is more exactly and your doctor can faind any cahnge early like erotion , u other transtorns in the motility .

about the price depents one dr. 1000,dl others 500dls in usa but they dont use fluoroscopy this price is in some where plus fluoroscopi. if you live nexto the border i should visit doctor in mexico can do for lest.

Alexandra · November 21, 2005

Hi Joyce,

Basically, a fluoroscope is an x-ray machine that takes moving pictures. You lie on a table under a big machine, and (at least in my experience), the doctor locates your port by touch as well as visually on the screen. Then they use a small needle for local anaesthetic, after which the area is numb. A large needle is inserted and the doctor then proceeds to adjust your band by adding or taking away Fluid. He might have you drink barium once or twice so he can watch the movement of your esophagus and the action of the band on the Fluid moving through your stoma. He may have you drink Water and ask you how that feels. Every doctor has his own technique, but I think you get the idea.

As for how much it costs, that varies WIDELY by area. Where I am in NJ the cost for the surgeon, the radiologist, and facility/hospital charges taken together comes to about $1000 (thankfully, so far covered by insurance). That's the big downside of fills under fluoroscopy, but I'm sure they're a lot less expensive in other parts of the country.

The upside of this kind of fill is that the doctor gets a visual check on your band placement and esophageal movement, possibly letting him get closer to your perfect restriction in one shot. Many doctors do it by "feel" in their offices, but that would by necessity be a less exact method.