New radiography (x-ray) and fluoroscopy equipment that produces real-time digital fluoroscopy for contrast studies is now in use at Southwest Medical Imaging on Highline Medical Center's main campus in Burien.

Fluoroscopy studies include arthrograms (joint images), barium swallows, upper gastro-intestinal (GI) images, small bowel series and barium enemas for colon studies.

A key feature of the new equipment is its rapid sequence digital acquisition, or filming speed, of 7.5 images per second, compared with four frames per second previously.

In addition to providing greater detail, the increased speed enhances patient comfort.

It also allows Southwest Medical Imaging to accommodate patients up to 400 pounds, compared with the previous limit of 300 pounds.

(Highline Medical Center's Specialty Campus in Tukwila still has an x-ray table limit of 300 pounds.)

For more information, or to schedule an imaging study including fluoroscopy, call 206-248-8900. No appointment is necessary for x-ray exams at either campus, unless an interpreter is required.

Southwest Medical Imaging is located in the Three Tree Medical Building adjacent to Highline Medical Center.