Fluoroscopy

what is a fluoroscopy?

Is a study of moving body structures--similar to an X-ray "movie." A continuous X-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined. The beam is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail. Fluoroscopy, as an imaging tool, enables physicians to look at many body systems, including the skeletal, digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems.



What are the reasons for a fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is used in many types of examinations and procedures, such as barium X-rays , cardiac catheterization , arthrography (visualization of a joint or joints), lumbar puncture , placement of intravenous (IV) catheters (hollow tubes inserted into veins or arteries), intravenous pyelogram , hysterosalpingogram, and biopsies.

Fluoroscopy may be used alone as a diagnostic procedure, or may be used in conjunction with other diagnostic or therapeutic media or procedures.

In barium X-rays , fluoroscopy used alone allows the doctor to see the movement of the intestines as the barium moves through them and allows the doctor to position the patient for spot imaging. In cardiac catheterization , fluoroscopy is used as an adjunct to enable the doctor to see the flow of blood through the coronary arteries in order to evaluate the presence of arterial blockages. For intravenous catheter insertion, fluoroscopy assists the doctor in guiding the catheter into a specific location inside the body.

Other uses of fluoroscopy include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Locating foreign bodies

  • Image-guided anesthetic injections into joints or the spine

  • Percutaneous vertebroplasty . A minimally invasive procedure used to treat compression fractures of the vertebrae of the spine

There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend fluoroscopy.



How do I prepare for a fluoroscopy exam?


PRECAUTIONS: If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please check with your doctor before scheduling the exam. Other options will be discussed with you and your doctor.

CLOTHING: You may be asked to change into a patient gown. A gown will be provided for you. Lockers are provided to secure your personal belongings. Please remove all piercings and leave all jewelry and valuables at home.

EAT/DRINK: Specific instructions will be provided based on the examination you are scheduled for.

ALLERGIES: Notify the radiologist or technologist if you are allergic or sensitive to medications, contrast dyes or iodine.


after the procedure

The type of care required after the procedure will depend on the type of fluoroscopy that is performed. Certain procedures, such as cardiac catheterization, will likely require a recovery period of several hours with immobilization of the leg or arm where the cardiac catheter was inserted. Other procedures may require less time for recovery.

If you notice any pain, redness, and/or swelling at the IV site after you return home following your procedure, you should notify your doctor as this could indicate an infection or other type of reaction.

Your doctor will give more specific instructions related to your care after the examination or procedure.