Updated on - 02 Jan 2026
Fluoroscopy is used in many medical tests to help doctors see what is happening inside the body during certain tests or procedures. It acts like a live video, allowing healthcare providers to watch how organs move, how a contrast dye travels or how a medical device is positioned during a procedure. This makes it easier to diagnose conditions, guide treatments and ensure accuracy during complex interventions.
Understanding how the process works and when it is used can help you feel more prepared before undergoing the procedure.
What is fluoroscopy?
In its simplest terms, fluoroscopy is a video form of the more commonly encountered medical X-ray procedure. It allows physicians to monitor the body’s internal structures in real-time to accurately understand an individual’s health condition.
Fluoroscopy is a medical imaging procedure where multiple X-ray beams are passed through the body to generate a continuous movie of X-ray images of the body’s internal organs and tissues.
It helps doctors see how different organs function inside the body, including the heartbeat, the movement of food through the intestines and the expansion of the lungs. The procedure not only helps diagnose the issue but also guides through an ongoing operation.
How fluoroscopy works
A fluoroscopy procedure generally begins with the patient removing any items that might interfere with the imaging, such as jewellery, glasses, metal accessories or dental appliances. A hospital gown is then provided to ensure clear and safe imaging. Depending on the type of fluoroscopy, a protective lead apron may be placed over certain body parts to limit radiation exposure.
For tests that require better visibility of internal structures, the patient may be asked to drink a contrast liquid or receive it through another route. Once prepared, the patient lies on the examination table and may be instructed to stay still or briefly hold their breath so the images are captured clearly.
During the procedure, a continuous X-ray beam passes through the body and creates real-time images on a monitor, allowing doctors to observe internal movement and guide treatment accurately.
Common uses of fluoroscopy in diagnosis and treatment
Healthcare professionals use fluoroscopy to diagnose different health conditions. Some of the diagnostic uses include:
- Esophagogram: It is used to examine the oesophagus and detect issues affecting the upper digestive tract.
- Angiography: It helps identify blockages or narrowing within the arteries by providing a live view of blood flow.
- Barium enema: It shows the structure of the colon and rectum, helping detect abnormalities such as inflammation, narrowing or growths.
- Cystography: It allows doctors to assess the bladder’s structure and function, including how well it fills and drains.
- Myelography: It provides detailed images of the spinal cord and nerve roots, helping identify compression or other spinal problems.
- Hysterosalpingogram: It captures moving images of the uterus and fallopian tubes to check for blockages or structural concerns in women.
- Sniff test: It evaluates the movement of the diaphragm to determine whether it is functioning normally.
Here is how fluoroscopy helps in the treatment process:
- Stent placement: Fluoroscopy guides doctors while positioning stents to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels.
- Orthopaedic surgery: It assists surgeons during procedures such as fracture repairs or joint replacements by giving real-time images of bones and joints.
- Intravascular catheterisation: It helps doctors track blood flow within arteries and ensures catheters are placed correctly.
- Catheter adjustment or insertion: It assists the doctor in placing the thin tubes through the bile ducts, blood vessels or urethra.
Cost of fluoroscopy and health insurance coverage
The cost of the medical procedure depends on the severity and location of the test. It typically costs between INR 1,500 and INR 7,000, and is influenced by multiple other factors. The procedure cost varies according to:
- Healthcare facility
- Geographical location
- Type of procedure
- Specific clinical requirements
Although the diagnostic procedure can be costly, a health insurance policy can help reduce the financial burden by covering part or all of the test expenses. Depending on individual needs, there are different plans available, such as family health insurance, critical illness insurance, senior citizen health insurance and more. If you need personalised guidance on which option to choose, fill out the form provided on this page.
Conclusion
Fluroscopy is a safe test as there’s only a minimal risk of an allergic reaction. It helps quickly scan the body and assist with a procedure. Unlike several medical imaging processes, fluoroscopy shows how the internal organs are working. It is a part of several operations, and thus a requisite part of a patient’s treatment. Therefore, choosing reliable health insurance plans to cover healthcare expenses is advisable. It helps you stay prepared in times of need.
FAQs
1. Do I need to do anything to prepare for the fluoroscopy test?
You may have to avoid certain medications or fast for several hours for some of the fluoroscopy tests.
2. Is a fluoroscopy test painful or risky?
Most of the fluoroscopy tests are painless and involve minimal to no risk. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women as the radiation can harm the baby.
3. What are the after-care steps for fluoroscopy?
The after-care steps depend on the type of procedure. Certain processes require certain hours for recovery. Others require less time to recover.
4. Is fluoroscopy similar to X-rays?
Fluoroscopy differs from X-rays as it provides a moving view of the internal organs. On the other hand, X-rays only provide you with still images.
5. What are the different uses of the fluoroscopy procedure?
Fluoroscopy is used to diagnose conditions by giving live images of organs, such as the heart, digestive system and bladder. It also guides doctors during procedures like stent placement, orthopaedic surgeries and catheter insertion.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.