What happens during fluoroscopy?
Depending on the type of procedure, a fluoroscopy may be done at an outpatient radiology center or as part of your stay in a hospital. The procedure may include some or most of the following steps:
You may need to remove your clothing. If so, you will be given a hospital gown.
You will be given a lead shield or apron to wear over your pelvic area or another part of your body, depending on the type of fluoroscopy. The shield or apron provides protection from unnecessary radiation.
For certain procedures, you may be asked to drink a liquid containing contrast dye. Contrast dye is a substance that makes parts of your body show up more clearly on an x-ray.
If you are not asked to drink a liquid with the dye, you may be given the dye through an intravenous (IV) line or enema. An IV line will send the dye directly to your vein. An enema is procedure that flushes the dye into the rectum.
You will be positioned on an x-ray table. Depending on the type of procedure, you may be asked move your body in different positions or move a certain body part. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a brief period of time.
If your procedure involves getting a catheter, your provider will insert a needle in the appropriate body part. This may be your groin, elbow, or other site.
Your provider will use a special x-ray scanner to make the fluoroscopic images.
If a catheter was placed, your provider will remove it.
For certain procedures, such as those that involve injections into a joint or artery, you may first be given pain medicine and/or medicine to relax you.
