WHAT IS A FLUOROSCOPY?
Fluoroscopy is a medical imaging technique that uses a fluoroscope to obtain real-time moving X-ray images of the interior structures of a patient. There is no need to develop x-ray film using this method. The C-arm fluoroscope gets its name from the shape of the arm that has the x-ray generator on one end and the x-ray detector on the other.
Fluoroscopy is helpful during surgical procedures. Orthopedic surgeons use fluoroscopy to not only repair fractures, but to check hardware, examine bone density, and to see bone alignment. Much like a traditional x-ray, the soft tissues don’t show up. Therefore, fluoroscopy is only used when bone is involved.
There are minor risks associated with all fluoroscopy procedures. This procedure utilizes X-ray technology therefore patients are exposed to some level of radiation.