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.
The procedure may be done at an outpatient radiology center or in a hospital. Steps may include: removing jewelry, dental appliances, eyeglasses, and metal objects; removing clothing and wearing a hospital gown; wearing a lead shield over the pelvic area or other body part; drinking contrast dye or receiving it through an IV or enema; positioning on an x-ray table; moving body parts or holding breath as instructed; for catheter procedures, a needle insertion in the groin, elbow, or other site; the provider uses a special x-ray scanner to view images on a computer screen. For certain procedures, pain medicine, relaxant, or general anesthesia may be given.
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. The radiation dose depends on the procedure, but fluoroscopy is not considered harmful for most people. Talk to your provider about all the x-rays you've had in the past. The risks from radiation exposure may be linked to the number of x-ray treatments you've had over time. 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 the type of procedure you had. Several conditions and disorders can be diagnosed by fluoroscopy. Your provider may need to send your results to a specialist or do more tests to help make a diagnosis. To understand the results, your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other tests.
- No abnormal findings observed: The structures and functions appeared normal during the imaging. Limitation: Some conditions may not be visible on fluoroscopy. Results should be correlated with other tests. Next step: No immediate action required. Follow up with your provider as scheduled.
- Abnormal findings detected: The images showed a potential problem with the structure or function of the area being examined. Limitation: Further testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. The abnormality may be due to a benign or serious condition. Next step: Your provider will discuss the findings and recommend additional tests or procedures to determine the cause.
- 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
Your provider may need to send your results to a specialist or do more tests to help make a diagnosis. 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?