ABSTRACT
Fluoroscopy is a radiological examination that aims to provide visualization of dynamic processes as they occur. Fluoroscopy-guided procedures have become an important part of radiological practice since the beginning of the twentieth century. Fluoroscopy procedures use ionizing radiation for guidance as small instruments, such as catheters, guidewires, balloons, and stents, are manipulated through blood vessels or other pathways in the body. At first most of the procedures were diagnostic and had the scope only to identify clinical problems. Technologic advances over the past several decades led to a great increase in number and complexity of interventional procedures. As compared to open surgical procedures, interventional fluoroscopy procedures require a very small incision and permit shorter recovery times. They often have lower complication rates as well. As a result, these less invasive procedures have become very common, and are replacing open surgical procedures.
