An imaging technique that usually gathers real time images by using a fluoroscope of internal structures of the human body. A fluoroscope mimics an x-ray movie, where continuous images are displayed on the monitor. This type of imaging has a fluorescent screen with an x-ray beam passing through the human body.

This procedure is quite helpful to the surgeons while they are performing surgical procedures. Moving structures of the body and the diseases can be easily suspected by this imaging process. Well, Fluoroscopy (اختبار التنظير) offers various benefits. Let’s check them out when a doctor uses fluoroscopy-

  • Urological Surgery- Surgery of the urinary tract and the reproductive organs
  • Enemas- This procedure involves inserting a rubber tip into the rectum
  • Orthopedic Surgery- Musculoskeletal system conditions that may require surgery
  • Angiography- x-rays of lymph and heart
  • Pacemaker implantation- Implantation of a small electronic device in the chest

How it works- 

A fluoroscopy test (اختبار التنظير) can be performed depending on the conditions and disease of the patient-

  • Removing of any jewelry or clothing prior in the process of fluoroscopy
  • The doctor may usually give you a contract dye or substance depending on the procedure of the treatment. A contrast is used to get a better look at your structures and organs they want to examine.
  • Receiving a procedure that requires a catheter then the doctor might insert a needle into your elbow or groin.
  • If the technician is observing a joint they are supposed to remove the fluid with a syringe or needle before they inject the contrast dye.
  • The length of the examination generally depends on the body part being examined.
  • The doctor will usually use an x-ray scanner to produce a fluoroscopic image of the body structure being treated.
  • The recovery time depends on the procedure.

Why does someone need a fluoroscopy?

  • Arthrography– This is a type of x- ray to view one or more joints. Chest fluoroscopy uses catheter arthrography.
  • Electrophysiology Procedures– An electrophysiology procedure uses fluoroscopy to treat irregular heart beats.
  • Barium X-Rays– The barium x-rays allow the doctor to see movement in the intestines.
  • Needle biopsies- Usually the doctor does this procedure to obtain tissue of the lung.

Usually the fluoroscopy is needed along with another diagnostic process. It may be needed sometimes along with various other reasons.

Preparation of a fluoroscopy procedure– Make sure to ask any questions and concerns one has so that the procedure can happen smoothly.

  • Consent is usually needed to perform this diagnostic. Make sure to read it carefully.
  • If you are breast-feeding let your doctor know about it.
  • Tell your doctor about the current medications, be it supplements or any vitamins.
  • Do tell the doctor about the allergies or any reaction to any contrast dye faced earlier.
  • Many fluoroscopies require no preparation. Basically, one is asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight before the procedure. This test requires the individual to fast.
  • Don’t use mints, gums and cigarettes after midnight before the procedure.

After the fluoroscopy, one can start the normal diet and the medicines, unless the doctor advises you not to. The procedure is safe.