Fluoroscopy
Reviewed
Also called: Real-time X-ray imaging, Fluoroscopic imaging
Fluoroscopy is a type of x-ray that shows organs, tissues, or other internal structures moving in real time.
Specimen: None
Why this test may be ordered
- To check the function of a particular organ, system, or other internal part of your body.
- To provide imaging guidance during certain medical procedures, such as surgery or placement of a stent.
Preparation and collection
Your preparation will depend on the type of fluoroscopy procedure. Your provider will let you know if you need to do any special preparations. For example, for certain procedures, you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. You may also need to avoid certain medicines before the test, so tell your provider about everything you take. But don't stop taking any medicines unless your provider tells you to.
Depending on the type of procedure, a fluoroscopy may be done at an outpatient radiology center or as part of your stay in a hospital. For certain procedures, you may be asked to drink a liquid containing contrast dye. You will be positioned on an x-ray table. Your provider will use a special x-ray scanner to make the fluoroscopic images.
You should not have a fluoroscopy procedure if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Radiation can be harmful to a developing baby. For others, there is little risk to having this test. But talk to your provider about all the x-rays you've had in the past. If your procedure involves using contrast dye, there is a small risk of an allergic reaction. Tell your provider if you have any allergies, especially to shellfish or iodine, or if you've ever had a reaction to contrast material.
Understanding results
Your results will depend on what type of procedure you had.
- Findings that suggest a condition: Several conditions and disorders can be diagnosed by fluoroscopy. Limitation: To understand the results of your fluoroscopy procedure, your provider may consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other tests. Next step: Your provider may need to send your results to a specialist or do more tests to help make a diagnosis.
- Results reviewed with your other information: The procedure can help your provider evaluate and diagnose a variety of conditions. Limitation: Your results will depend on what type of procedure you had. Next step: If you have questions about your results, talk to your provider.
- Radiation exposure, though low, may accumulate over many procedures.
- Allergic reactions to contrast dye are possible.
- Results may require additional testing for a definitive diagnosis.
What to do next
If you have questions about your results, talk to your provider.
- How should I prepare for a fluoroscopy procedure?
- What are the risks associated with fluoroscopy?
- What do the results of a fluoroscopy mean?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.