Whether you’ve received a referral for a Fluoroscopy or are exploring your options on your own, we’re here to help you understand what comes next. This page covers everything you need to know about a Fluoroscopy— from how to prepare beforehand, to what to expect during the exam, and how to proceed afterward.
What is Fluoroscopy?
Fluoroscopy is a type of imaging that shows real-time movement inside the body. A continuous X-ray beam passes through the area being examined and displays live images on a monitor, allowing for the body part and its motion to be seen in detail.
Fluoroscopy helps evaluate both the structure and function of various parts of the body, including bones, muscles, joints, and organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.
It can be performed on its own or in combination with other procedures. In some cases, a contrast agent (such as barium or iodine) is used to better visualize the organs.
Common Fluoroscopy Procedures
- Gastrointestinal Fluoroscopy: Evaluates swallowing, digestion, and bowel movement by capturing continuous X-ray images of the digestive tract.
- Cystography: Evaluates bladder and urinary tract function, helping to detect issues such as reflux, leaks, or blockages.
Before Your Appointment
SCHEDULING YOUR EXAM
There are several easy ways to schedule your exam, choose the option that works best for you.
1. Schedule Online
If you're a Weill Cornell Medicine (WCM) patient and an imaging exam has been ordered for you, you will receive a link to schedule online.
2. Request Online
Not a WCM patient? Request an appointment to schedule by securely uploading your prescription.
3. Call Us Directly
Call 212-746-6000.
Mon-Fri: 8AM to 7PM ET
Sat-Sun: 9AM to 5PM ET
Our Locations that Offer Fluoroscopy
- Starr Pavillion (Upper East Side)
Complete Your Forms Easily
Log into Weill Cornell Connect to complete your safety forms ahead of time using eCheck-In. It’s quick and helps save you time on the day of your appointment.
Don’t have an account? Join today!
Preparing for Your Exam
When scheduling and checking in for your appointment, please let our staff know if any of the following apply:
- You may be pregnant or are currently breastfeeding.
- You need an interpreter in your language.
FAQ
During Your Appointment
How is Fluoroscopy Performed?
- You will be positioned on an x-ray table.
- A special x-ray scanner will be used to capture live images of the body part being examined.
You may be asked to drink a contrast agent during your exam. Specific instructions will be provided at the time of the exam and are available on Connect.
After the Scan is Completed
The technologist will escort you to your locker to collect your belongings. Our staff will assist you with check-out.
After Your Appointment
Aftercare
- If you received oral contrast during your exam, you will be instructed to drink 10 glasses of fluids within 24 hours to help flush the contrast out of your system.
- You may resume all regular activity unless otherwise directed by your physician.
- While uncommon, if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, please contact us at 646-962-7057.
Imaging Review
Once the technologist has taken your images, a radiologist will review the images and write a detailed report. Our radiologists specialize in imaging for specific areas of the body, ensuring you receive the highest-quality, expert interpretation every time. Our specialties include:
- Abdominal
- Breast
- Cardiothoracic (Heart and Chest)
- Molecular
- Musculoskeletal
- Neuroradiology (Brain, Head, Neck and Spine)
- Pediatrics
Receiving Your Results
Your report will be automatically share with you and your referring provider within 24-48 hours. You can view your images and reports through Connect. Use this guide to get started.
Sharing Your Results
All imaging exams performed at Weill Cornell Imaging will be available to you in Connect. If you'd like to keep other members of your care team informed, you can easily share your results with any additional providers.
Understanding Your Results
Please contact your referring provider to discuss your results. They will help explain your imaging report and answer any questions you may have.
If you or your provider have additional questions, our Reading Room Coordinators (RRC) will help connect you with a radiologist.
For more information or to contact a RRC, visit this link.