Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is an x-ray procedure that makes it possible to see internal organs in motion. In fact, you could call fluoroscopy an x-ray “movie.” A continuous x-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined, and is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail.

A dye or “contrast material” that shows up on x-rays can be injected or swallowed during fluoroscopy to outline blood vessels, organs and pathology.

Where are Fluoroscopic Procedures Performed?

MultiCare Medical Imaging performs fluoroscopic procedures at Tacoma General and Mary Bridge Children's Hospital, Allenmore Hospital, MultiCare Covington Clinic, MultiCare Auburn Medical Center and Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup.

Why is it Done?

Fluoroscopy plays an important role in many procedures and examinations. Your physician may order a fluoroscopic procedure for imaging of skeletal, digestive, urinary, reproductive or respiratory systems.

What to Expect

The technologist or nurse will ask you questions before you have your procedure. It is very important to tell the technologist if you:

• Are allergic to any medicines
• Are or might be pregnant
• Have any other health conditions
• Need an interpreter. MultiCare will provide an interpreter specialized in medical terminology for patients who are not proficient in English. Unfortunately, family members of patients cannot be interpreters.

Please feel free to ask the technologist or nurse any questions before and during the exam. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions of a radiologist, physician assistant or radiology assistant.

Each fluoroscopy procedure is different and requires a unique process. You will be asked to lie or stand against an x-ray table. A special x-ray machine is used to image the structure in your body that is being examined. You may be given contrast material or dye to help with the imaging process. For your procedure, you may be asked to wear a hospital gown.

How to Prepare

Depending on the procedure that is being performed, you may be given specific preparation instructions, including any eating and drinking restrictions.

Please arrive to your exam at least 15 minutes early to complete paperwork.

For your safety and the safety of your children, please make arrangements for someone to care for your children during your scheduled appointment time. If you are unable to find care for them, please call and reschedule your appointment.

Getting Your Results

A radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report with his or her interpretation to your health care provider. You may obtain your results from the health care provider who referred you for this procedure.