Overview of Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is a medical imaging technique that uses a continuous X-ray beam to create real-time moving images inside the body. At Cape Fear Valley, our radiology team uses fluoroscopy to guide procedures, evaluate function, and help your care team make timely, accurate decisions. Our fluoroscopy imaging services are designed to provide clear guidance during both diagnostic and interventional care.

Unlike a standard X-ray that captures a single image, fluoroscopy provides a live video of anatomy in motion. Clinicians can watch organs move, see contrast material progress through the body, and guide instruments precisely during procedures. This real-time capability is the hallmark of fluoroscopic imaging.

Common fluoroscopic exams include:

  • Gastrointestinal studies: upper GI series, barium swallow, and barium enema
  • Joint imaging: arthrograms
  • Reproductive and urinary studies: hysterosalpingography (HSG) and voiding cystourethrograms (VCUG)
  • Image-guided injections and pain procedures
  • Feeding tube placement and catheter or line checks

Fluoroscopy also supports operating room procedures in orthopedics, vascular interventions, and other minimally invasive treatments.

How it works: an X-ray source and detector produce continuous images that appear on a monitor. Your radiologist may use a contrast agent, such as barium or an iodine-based dye, to highlight structures and track movement through the digestive, urinary, or vascular system. The care team assesses anatomy and function in real time while keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable. When a fluoroscopy exam is ordered, we tailor the protocol to your clinical question to maximize the value of fluoroscopy imaging.
 

Preparing for Your Fluoroscopy Exam

Preparation varies by exam. Our scheduling team will provide instructions when your appointment is booked. In general:

  • For most GI studies, do not eat or drink for 4 to 8 hours beforehand.
  • Take routine medications with a small sip of water unless told otherwise. Follow specific guidance for diabetes or blood thinner medications from your ordering clinician or our team.
  • Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers, snaps, or jewelry; you may be asked to change into a gown.

Many exams use contrast. We will screen for allergies, asthma, prior contrast reactions, and kidney conditions. If you have a known allergy to iodine-based contrast, notify us in advance. Premedication may be recommended or an alternative study may be arranged. Bring a current medication list and your allergy information.

When you arrive, check in at Radiology/Imaging Services. Please bring a photo ID, insurance card, and any prior imaging or reports if available. Plan to arrive 15 to 30 minutes early for registration and consent. If sedation is planned, arrange a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first day. If you are scheduled for a fluoro exam that involves sedation, confirm any fasting or medication adjustments in advance.
 

What to Expect During a Fluoroscopy

After check-in, a technologist will escort you to the fluoroscopy suite. The room includes a fluoroscopy table, a movable X-ray unit, and monitors that display live images. A board-certified radiologist will perform or supervise the exam. A radiologic technologist operates the equipment, and a nurse may assist with IV placement, medications, or monitoring if sedation is used.

You will be positioned on the table, and you may be asked to stand or turn to capture different views. For GI studies, you may drink barium or a similar contrast liquid. For joint or urinary studies, contrast may be injected via a small needle or catheter. Most exams take 15 to 45 minutes; interventional procedures may take longer. Sedation is rarely needed for routine studies, but local anesthetic or mild sedation may be used for injections or catheter-based procedures to reduce discomfort. Whether your fluoroscopy exam is diagnostic or interventional, our team explains each step of the fluoroscopic imaging process so you know what to expect.

Your safety is our priority. We use the lowest radiation dose needed for diagnostic quality and tailor exposure to your size and the clinical question. Lead shielding and collimation are used when appropriate, fluoroscopy time is kept as short as possible, and our equipment is regularly tested to meet federal and state safety standards. Every fluoro exam follows our ALARA principles to minimise exposure while maintaining image clarity.
 

Results of a Fluoroscopy

A fellowship-trained or board-certified radiologist will interpret your exam and prepare a report. Results are sent to your ordering provider, who will discuss the findings with you. Preliminary impressions are often available the same day, with final reports typically within one to two business days. If your test is performed during a procedure, the radiologist may share immediate information before you leave. For many patients, the rapid feedback from a fluoroscopy exam helps expedite next steps in care.

Fluoroscopy is generally safe. Potential risks include brief discomfort during positioning, a small exposure to ionizing radiation, and side effects from contrast such as a metallic taste, nausea, constipation (with barium), or rare allergic reactions to iodine-based contrast. Seek medical attention if you experience severe rash, shortness of breath, swelling of the face or throat, fever, persistent abdominal pain, or inability to pass stool after a barium study. If you received sedation, you may feel drowsy and should not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours. Contact us if you have questions following your fluoro exam or notice unexpected symptoms.

Follow-up depends on your results. Your provider may order additional imaging, lab tests, or treatment based on the findings. Our team coordinates with your care providers to ensure results are incorporated into your care plan. If you use a patient portal, you may view your report when it is released.

Fluoroscopy FAQ

Is fluoroscopy painful?

Most exams are not painful. You may feel temporary fullness during GI studies or brief stinging with a local anesthetic for injections. Our staff explains each step and focuses on your comfort throughout the fluoroscopy exam.

How much radiation is used?

Fluoroscopy uses ionizing radiation, but our equipment and protocols keep dose as low as reasonably achievable. For many studies, exposure is comparable to or moderately higher than a standard X-ray, and significantly lower than most CT scans. Your radiologist tailors dose to your body and the exam type, using best practices in fluoroscopic imaging.

Can I drive after my exam?

If you did not receive sedation, you can usually resume normal activities and drive yourself home. If sedation was given, you must have a responsible adult drive you and stay with you for 24 hours.

How is fluoroscopy different from CT, MRI, and ultrasound?

Fluoroscopy is real-time X-ray imaging ideal for watching movement and guiding procedures. CT creates detailed cross-sectional images using X-rays. MRI uses magnets and radio waves, with no radiation, and is best for soft tissues such as the brain, spine, and joints. Ultrasound uses sound waves, with no radiation, and is excellent for evaluating soft tissues and blood flow, including during pregnancy. Your provider selects the best test for your needs and may recommend fluoroscopy imaging when real-time guidance is important.

How do I schedule and is it covered by insurance?

Most fluoroscopy exams require a provider order. Our scheduling team will verify insurance benefits and obtain prior authorization when needed. Coverage varies by plan, and you may have a copay or deductible. To schedule or ask questions, contact Cape Fear Valley Imaging Services at your nearest location, or visit capefearvalley.com for phone numbers and hours.