A Diagnostic Moving Image

Fluoroscopy

What is fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is medical imaging in a real-time, moving image on a monitor. This allows us to watch your pet's internal organs and systems actively working, rather than just seeing what they look like at a standstill. Fluoroscopy uses a continuous x-ray beam to do this, and is the preferred imaging method to diagnose dynamic functional issues involving:

Swallowing and digestion
Airway and respiratory issues
Blood flow and minimally-invasive procedures

What does Fluoroscopy help identify or diagnose?

Because fluoroscopy captures motion, it is beneficial for diagnosing dynamic, functional issues that standard still X-rays often completely miss.

We most commonly use it to evaluate:

Swallowing and Digestion: Watching how food and liquid move from the mouth through the esophagus to diagnose megaesophagus, swallowing disorders, or motility problems.

Airway and Respiratory Issues: Identifying a collapsing trachea or bronchial collapse by observing the airway while your pet is actively coughing or breathing heavily.

Blood Flow and Minimally Invasive Procedures: Guiding surgical interventions in real-time, such as placing stents for urinary tract issues or evaluating vascular anomalies like portosystemic shunts.

Why is it better to have a board-certified veterinary radiologist interpret the results?

A board-certified veterinary radiologist completes years of advanced, specialized training exclusively focused on medical imaging. Watching a fluoroscopy study is like trying to catch split-second functional abnormalities in a fast-moving, black-and-white video. We are trained to spot subtle nuances in organ movement, contrast flow, and tissue function, ensuring you receive a highly accurate diagnosis and a targeted, effective treatment plan for your pet.

Are there any specific instructions to prepare my pet for a Fluoroscopy?

Your pet may be prescribed anti-nausea and/or anti-anxiety medications to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for your pet.
Fasting also may be recommended, usually for at least 8 hours. This is especially critical if we are performing a swallow study, evaluating the digestive tract, or if the procedure might require mild sedation.

What type of information does the Boarded Radiologist need prior to scheduling a Fluoroscopy?

To ensure fluoroscopy is the safest and most appropriate diagnostic tool for your pet's specific issue, we need a complete clinical picture beforehand. We will ask for:
Detailed Medical History: A clear timeline of your pet's symptoms (such as coughing, regurgitation, or difficulty swallowing).
Primary Veterinary Records: Full medical notes, exam findings, and lab work from your primary veterinarian.
Previous Imaging: Any recent standard X-rays or ultrasounds.
Current Medications: An up-to-date list of all medications, particularly cough suppressants or gastrointestinal drugs, as we may need you to pause them before a functional study.