Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures - similar to an X-ray "movie." First, a continuous X-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined. Then, the beam is transmitted to a TV-like monitor to see the body part and its motion in detail.
Fluoroscopy is used in many types of imaging procedures. The most common uses of fluoroscopy include:
Barium swallow or barium enema: In these procedures, fluoroscopy is used to show the movement of the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract.
Cardiac catheterization: In this procedure, fluoroscopy shows blood flowing through the arteries. It is used to diagnose and treat some heart conditions.
Placement of catheter or stent inside the body: Catheters are thin, hollow tubes. They are used to get fluids into the body or to drain excess fluids from the body. Stents are devices that help open narrow or blocked blood vessels. Fluoroscopy helps ensure the proper placement of these devices.
Guidance in orthopedic surgery: A surgeon may use fluoroscopy to help guide procedures such as joint replacement and fracture (broken bone) repair.
Hysterosalpingogram: In this procedure, fluoroscopy is used to provide images of a woman's reproductive organs.