How Effective is a Fluoroscopy?

Medical imaging techniques are essential for diagnosing and guiding the treatment of various health conditions.

Although these procedures are generally minimally invasive, doing an imaging test can still be overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time.

What is a Fluoroscopy?

A fluoroscopy is an FDA-approved medical imaging procedure that shows a continuous X-ray image on a monitor, creating a real-time video of movements inside the body.

It’s typically used to observe a specific joint or muscle motion, instrument, or contrast material — a liquid injected into the body to make organs visible on a scan.

The procedure works by sending a continuous X-ray beam through the examined body part, projecting detailed images of its motion onto a monitor.

Analyzing fluoroscopy results can help physicians look at various bodily systems to accurately diagnose injuries or diseases.

Who performs a fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy procedures are typically performed by a radiologist — a doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating conditions using imaging techniques.

In some cases — especially during interventional or therapeutic procedures — other medical specialists might also perform or assist with fluoroscopies, including:

• Cardiologists
• Orthopedic surgeons
• Gastroenterologists
• Urologists
• Vascular surgeons

What is the difference between a fluoroscopy, X-ray, and radiography?

Fluoroscopy, X-ray, and radiography are distinct imaging procedures, each utilizing different techniques and producing unique visual outputs:

• X-ray: A form of electromagnetic radiation that passes through the body to create images. It's quick and used to visualize internal structures like bones.

• Radiography: The general category of procedures that use imaging methods — like MRI, X-ray, and CT scans — to produce detailed images of the body's interior.

• Fluoroscopy: A specific type of imaging that uses X-rays to create real-time, moving images of internal structures. It's often used during diagnostic procedures and surgeries to provide live feedback to healthcare providers.

Why Would You Need a Fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopies are valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tools used in various medical procedures.

They can be used for several reasons, but doctors usually recommend them in the following circumstances:

• Angiography: In cases of cardiac catheterization and angiography, fluoroscopy is used to visualize the flow of blood through the coronary arteries and heart chambers. This helps to identify blocked blood vessels and other abnormalities.

• Orthopedic surgery: Fluoroscopy aids in orthopedic surgeries like fixing fractures and joint replacements, allowing real-time visualization of bones and joints for precise implant alignment.

• Gastrointestinal procedures: A fluoroscopy is sometimes used to observe the movement of barium through the digestive tract, which helps diagnose conditions like ulcers, tumors, or certain motility disorders.

• Urological procedures: A fluoroscopy can also be used in procedures involving the urinary tract — such as kidney stone management — to guide the treatment process.

• Pain management: For pain management injections — like epidurals — a fluoroscopy ensures that the medication is administered accurately.

• Vascular surgery: A fluoroscopy can also be useful for procedures involving blood vessels, including balloon angioplasty and the placement of vascular stents.

How Do You Prepare for a Fluoroscopy Test?

Preparing for a fluoroscopy test mainly involves implementing measures to ensure your safety. These include:

• Fasting: You may be asked to fast for a certain period before the fluoroscopy, especially if the test involves the digestive system.

• Use of medication: You’ll need to inform your doctor about any medication you’re currently taking or have taken in the past 72 hours. Some medications may need to be stopped or adjusted before taking the test.

• Allergy information: Inform your doctor about any allergies, particularly to iodine or iodinated contrast dye, as these are commonly used in fluoroscopy tests. If you have such sensitivities, alternative pre-medication will be required.

• Pregnancy: Inform the medical team if there is a possibility that you might be pregnant, because the radiation from a fluoroscopy may be harmful to a developing fetus.

While a fluoroscopy isn’t a high-risk procedure, taking these preventative steps can help ensure your safety.

What Can You Expect During the Test?

Depending on the specific condition that your doctor wants to diagnose, a fluoroscopy test may differ slightly.

Generally, you’ll be asked to change into a hospital gown and to remove any metal objects — such as jewelry — that may interfere with the procedure.

Then a radiologist will administer any pre-medication or contrasting agents. This usually involves swallowing an oral agent or getting an injection.

Once the imaging room has been prepped, you’ll be asked to enter, and a fluorescent screen will be positioned around you.

A radiologist will operate the equipment from a separate room but will communicate with you through an intercom.

Then, the imaging process starts. An X-ray beam will be passed through the body and the images will be displayed on a monitor.

The medical team may also ask you to change positions, hold your breath, or move to different angles during this time.

Once the test is finished, you’ll receive specific instructions on how to flush any contrasting agents from your system and when you can expect your results.

These tests typically take under an hour, and you’ll receive your results on the same day. Your doctor will contact you to schedule an appointment to discuss everything.

What are the Benefits and Risks of a Fluoroscopy?

Benefits

A fluoroscopy is an extremely useful diagnostic tool that can help medical professionals observe and treat various diseases before they become more serious.

Other benefits may include:

• Dynamic imaging: A fluoroscopy provides real-time moving images, allowing doctors to see the function of internal organs and structures, not just their shape and size. This ensures a more accurate diagnosis and improved medical care.

• Guided procedures: It allows for precise guidance when inserting instruments during surgical and diagnostic procedures, increasing the accuracy and safety of these interventions.

• Minimally invasive: Many procedures guided by a fluoroscopy are less invasive than traditional surgery, reducing the risk of complications and shortening recovery times. A minimally invasive procedure is also less traumatic and may encourage individuals to seek proper medical care when they need it.

• Versatility: A fluoroscopy is versatile and can be used alongside other diagnostic tools — like CT scans and ultrasounds — to improve the overall effectiveness of medical imaging.

Risks

Although there are many benefits to fluoroscopy testing, the procedure also carries some risks, including:

• Radiation exposure: The primary risk of a fluoroscopy is exposure to ionizing radiation. Modern fluoroscopy minimizes exposure, but long or repeated procedures still carry a small risk of cancer due to radiation accumulation over time.

• Contrast agent allergies: If a contrast agent is used, there may be a risk of an allergic reaction. These reactions are usually mild, but in rare cases, they can be severe.

• Pregnancy concerns: Radiation can be harmful to a developing fetus, so pregnant women are typically advised to avoid fluoroscopy unless necessary.

• Tissue damage: Prolonged exposure during a lengthy fluoroscopy procedure can cause radiation-induced tissue damage. However, this is rare with current safety protocols.

• It’s important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your doctor beforehand. They can then recommend alternative procedures, if necessary.

Are Fluoroscopies Effective?

Fluoroscopies are widely considered to be effective diagnostic tools due to their ability to provide real-time moving images of body systems.

This capability can help doctors better understand your symptoms and guide them in making a more precise diagnosis.

Ensuring an accurate diagnosis is also essential for getting the appropriate treatment.

Where Can You Learn More About Fluoroscopies and Similar Tests?

If you want to know more about fluoroscopy tests and similar imaging methods, LifeMD is here to help.

LifeMD can connect you to a team of medical professionals who can assist you with information and provide guidance on how to prepare for a safe fluoroscopy.

Make an appointment today to get started.