Fluoroscopy makes a moving X-ray picture of internal organs. A constant stream of X-rays passes through the patient. This casts shadows of internal organs onto a screen. It reveals less detail than a standard still X-ray. It exposes the person to somewhat more radiation than a standard X-ray. Therefore, doctors use it only when they need to see internal movement.

One use is to observe the lungs and diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle between the chest and the abdomen. It controls breathing. Fluoroscopy shows whether it moves properly. It can also show various parts of the digestive tract. Barium swallow and barium enema tests both use it. Contrast dyes allow views of the gall bladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. Another test inspects the enclosed space around the spinal column. Finally, it may be used to guide the passage of catheters or other tools through the body.

Fluoroscopy usually takes place in an office or the radiology section of a hospital. The room may be darkened, so the examiner can see the screen clearly. For many tests, fluoroscopy may be only a brief part of the overall procedure.

Pregnant women should not have fluoroscopy of the chest or abdomen. Healthcare providers now limit this test to the minimum amount of time needed to see the area being tested. Given these precautions, it is a relatively safe procedure.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go