A fluoroscopy is an imaging procedure in which a continuous, real-time X-ray image is projected onto a monitor; the result is almost like a movie.
If a patient is recommended to have a fluoroscopy or other imaging scans done after a virtual visit, rest assured Moffitt Cancer Center is committed to the health and safety of our patients, their families and our team members. In response to COVID-19, we are taking all necessary precautions consistent with the advice from the CDC. Moffitt is the safest place for cancer patients to receive the highest level of diagnostic imaging and radiology services.
Patients who are unable to travel to Moffitt for upcoming appointments should contact their health care team via the Patient Portal to determine if you are eligible for telemedicine, virtual visits and other options, and to determine next steps for care.
When performing a fluoroscopy, a licensed technologist will give a patient a dose of a contrast agent (X-ray dye) to swallow. A radiologist will then use the images to track the way the dye moves throughout the body. Ultimately, this can help the radiologist evaluate organs such as the lungs, heart or kidneys, or even the bones.
Compared to other common imaging scans, a fluoroscopy has a more limited scope of use. While CT scans, MRIs and X-rays can be used to diagnose a wide range of cancers, fluoroscopies are primarily enlisted in the following situations:
- To visually examine the gastrointestinal tract if a gastrointestinal cancer is suspected
- To guide a liver biopsy (the removal of a tissue sample for further testing) if liver cancer is suspected
- To guide the placement of a PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) for chemotherapy
At Moffitt Cancer Center, our expert imaging specialists can help determine if a fluoroscopy is the right procedure for a patient’s specific needs. If one is required, it can be performed on-site, and the results will be analyzed by a team of board-certified radiologists. If another procedure is recommended instead, our imaging services team can handle it with ease; a wide range of scans – CT scans and MRIs to PET scans and ultrasounds – are all available at Moffitt.
We currently offer our fluoroscopy services at:
Moffitt Cancer Center
12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Monday – Friday | 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about our fluoroscopy procedures, call 1-888-663-3488 or request to schedule an appointment online.
