Fluoroscopy
Fluoroscopy is a digital imaging method that uses X-rays to provide real-time, moving images of organs and structures inside the body. Unlike conventional X-rays, fluoroscopy provides a live image using video fluoroscopy and cine fluoroscopy techniques rather than a single static image. Thanks to this feature, it plays an important role in evaluating organ functions and movements.
What are its features?
- Provides real-time, moving imaging.
- Uses digital X-ray technology.
- Allows functional evaluation of organs and structures.
- Provides high diagnostic value in examinations performed with contrast agents.
- Provides real-time guidance to physicians during interventional procedures.
- Modern devices feature low-dose and dose-control systems.
- Enables rapid and targeted diagnosis.
- Helps facilitate the planning of diagnosis and treatment during the same session.
In which cases is it used?
- Difficulty swallowing and swallowing disorders
- Reflux and motility disorders
- Evaluation of the esophagus, stomach, and colon
- Diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux
- Urethral strictures
- Evaluation of joint movements
- Interventional radiology procedures
- Catheter, stent, and drain placement procedures
How is it performed?
Fluoroscopic examinations can be performed with the patient standing, sitting, or lying down, depending on the area being examined. In most examinations, a barium-based or iodine-based contrast agent is used. During the examination, the physician performs video fluoroscopic, cine fluoroscopic, and/or static evaluation using real-time imaging. The duration of the procedure varies depending on the type of examination but is generally short.
We have compiled the most frequently asked questions about fluoroscopy for you. Here, you can find answers to many questions you might have regarding this specialized X-ray method—which provides real-time imaging—covering everything from the situations in which it is used and the procedure itself to the preparation phase and the evaluation of results.
Fluoroscopy is an imaging method that uses X-rays to provide real-time, moving images of the internal structures of the body. It is used to evaluate the function and movement of organs.
Fluoroscopy is used in many medical procedures, including gastrointestinal examinations, swallowing tests, certain orthopedic procedures, and the evaluation of vascular interventions.
During the procedure, the patient is positioned appropriately, and the relevant area of the body is viewed in real time using X-rays. In some examinations, contrast material may be used to obtain clearer images.
Contrast material helps make organs or blood vessels more clearly visible. It is frequently used to evaluate structures such as the stomach, intestines, or esophagus.
The duration of the procedure may vary depending on the type of examination being performed, but it is generally completed within 15–30 minutes.
For some fluoroscopy procedures, you may need to fast for a few hours. Depending on the method used, the healthcare staff will provide you with information about the necessary preparation before the procedure.
Fluoroscopy is a method that uses X-rays, but the dose used during the procedure is carefully controlled. When performed for medically necessary reasons, it is considered a safe imaging method.
The images obtained during the procedure are evaluated by a radiologist, and a report is prepared. The results are usually provided to your doctor within a short period.