Fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy is used in many types of imaging procedures.
Fluoroscopy is used in many types of imaging procedures. It can be used to guide your provider during a procedure visually or to help diagnose a health condition. Some of the most common uses of fluoroscopy include: Barium swallow or barium enema. In these procedures, fluoroscopy shows 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 diseases . Placement of a 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 may be used by a surgeon to help guide procedures such as joint replacement and fracture (broken bone) repair. Hysterosalpingogram. In this procedure, fluoroscopy is used to provide images of female reproductive organs.
Why is this test ordered? You may need a fluoroscopy if your provider wants to check the function of a particular organ, system, or other internal part of your body. You may also need fluoroscopy for certain medical procedures that require imaging guidance. This could include surgery or the placement of a stent.
Clinical Interpretation
Your results will depend on what 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. If you have questions about your results, talk to your provider. To understand the results of your fluoroscopy procedure, your provider may consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other tests. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results .
Clinical Protocol & Patient Advice
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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.
Usage Guidance
- Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Always discuss your specific results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. View the original.