| Where It's Done | Who Does It | How Long It Takes | Discomfort/Pain |
| Doctor's office, radiology unit, or outpatient diagnostic clinic. | Technician, radiologist, or other doctor. | Varies according to nature of test. | None, but there may be discomfort from companion tests such as arteriography. |
| Results Ready When | Special Equipment | Risks/Complications | Average Cost |
| Usually immediately, although time may be needed to interpret other studies done at the same time. | X-ray unit, fluorescent screen, and perhaps video camera and monitor. | Same as for X-rays. | Varies depending on the companion study. |
Moving X-rays.
Purpose- To guide placement of a catheter during arteriography and other procedures.
- To assess lung movement and function.
- To detect obstructions of the airways or blood vessels.
- This is a variation of X-ray technology in which a continuous X-ray beam is used to assess an organ or object in real time. Although the beam is on continuously, the dose is low compared with the amount of radiation from a traditional X-ray.
- The images are projected onto a fluorescent screen; a video camera and monitor may also be used.
Same as for X-rays; additional preparation is needed if a contrast medium is to be used or if the test is a companion to another examination, such as cardiac catheterization.
Test procedureDepending on the nature of the examination, you may be asked to assume different positions, cough, breathe in and out, and perform other maneuvers while being exposed to the X-ray unit.
VariationsFluoroscopy is usually done in conjunction with other studies, including extremity exams, chest X-rays, dental studies, and hysterosalpinography (see above).
After the testYou will be free to return to your regular activities, unless these are restricted due to the companion procedures.
Factors affecting resultsMovement other than that requested by the examiner may alter results.
InterpretationA radiologist or other medical specialist interprets the results.
AdvantagesThe test is noninvasive and allows X-ray examination of an organ in real time. This may be done in conjunction with the administration of a contrast agent that is given orally (upper GI), rectally (barium enema), intra-articularly (arthrography), or intra-uterinely (HSG).
DisadvantagesIt is contraindicated during pregnancy.
