Fluoroscopic Imaging (Video X-ray)

About This Test

Fluoroscopy is a type of X-ray. But unlike other X-rays, doctors can use them to guide procedures in real time.

During a fluoroscopy procedure:

1. A machine passes an X-ray beam through the body.
2. It then transmits the resulting image to a monitor.
3. The medical team watches the movement of a body part, instrument or contrast agent on the monitor.

Procedures that may use fluoroscopy

Technicians and physicians at Franciscan Health use fluoroscopy for a variety of procedures, including:

• Outpatient procedures such as endoscopy
• Minor surgeries such as cardiac catheterization
• Orthopedic surgery

Benefits of fluoroscopy

The benefits of fluoroscopy include:

• It's a noninvasive and painless method to help diagnose disease and monitor therapy.
• It provides additional support for medical and surgical treatment planning.
• It functions as a real-time guide for medical personnel as they:
  • Insert catheters (long, thin tubes), stents (tiny mesh tubes that hold open blood vessels) or other devices inside the body
  • Treat tumors
  • Remove blood clots or other blockages