Fluoroscopy

What is fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is an x-ray of body structures in motion, like an X-ray "movie." A continuous X-ray beam is passed through the body and sent to a monitor where the body part in motion can be seen in detail.

Fluoroscopy can be used to study swallowing, the action of the digestive tract, or blood flow. It can also be used to guide a catheter during angioplasty or angiography.

What can I expect?

We will do everything we can to make you comfortable. You will lie on a table or stand up, depending on the area being x-rayed, and the camera will be set above or in front of you in order to get the correct angle. Fluoroscopy takes anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on its purpose.

For gastrointestinal (GI) studies you will usually need to drink a barium contrast agent or have a barium enema. The barium helps create a clear image that shows any polyps and other abnormalities. After a barium procedure your stool may turn a grayish white, but this is normal. Drink a lot of liquids to flush the barium out because it might cause constipation.

FAQs

How will it feel?

Fluoroscopic imaging is painless. You might be asked to change position from time to time, and to briefly hold your breath.

How should I prepare?

• Please tell the imaging staff if you are or might be pregnant.
• Please do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours prior to your exam.
• You will be asked to remove jewelry and wear a hospital gown during the scan.