Radiation in Video-Recorded Fluoroscopy

Abstract

Most swallowing specialists are aware that swallowing disorders are often best appreciated with the use of dynamically recorded fluoroscopic images. In the past, specialized cinefluorography systems were the dynamic recording method of choice. More recently, dynamic recording capability has become much more widely available with the use of inexpensive videotape recorders, easily connected to existing videofluoroscopy systems. Despite some loss of image quality, videotape-recorded fluoroscopy, or videofluorography (hereafter referred to as VTF) has many advantages over conventional cinefluorography systems in that it does not require specially designed x-ray equipment, and lacks the difficulties associated with handling, processing, and viewing of cine (movie) film. VTF, however, does involve radiation exposure to both patient and practitioner, and thus incorporates some risk.