Digital Fluoroscopy

Digital fluoroscopy is a special type of X-ray technology that your surgeon and pain management doctor use during a procedure. A digital fluoroscope projects live images onto a screen that your doctor monitors to maneuver tiny instruments into the correct position in hard-to-see places or for procedures that require magnification.

WHEN DIGITAL FLUOROSCOPY IS USED

Fluoroscopic techniques are employed during minimally invasive and microscopic surgical procedures, as well as for many diagnostic tests. When your doctor uses a digital fluoroscope, a moveable X-ray machine extends over the operating table, sending real-time images of your body to a screen.

Your physician uses fluoroscopy to precisely guide his or her hands while placing medications, needles and hardware during injections and surgery. Although fluoroscopy is a form of X-ray, your exposure to radiation from the digital fluoroscope is kept to a minimum.

PREPARATION FOR DIGITAL FLUOROSCOPY

Usually, you do not have to change your routine. Take your medications as normal unless you have been instructed otherwise. Please tell your doctor or the X-ray technologist if you are, or could be, pregnant.

You first may need to get preliminary X-rays of your spine taken if you’re scheduled for a procedure that will use digital fluoroscopy. Depending on your specific procedure, you will have to remove any clothing or jewelry that may interfere with the fluoroscopic image. Your doctor may provide additional instructions to help you prepare for your procedure, depending upon the particular procedure. Please follow all instructions.