Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures (similar to an X-ray movie).  This allows procedures such as injections to be carefully guided to the correct body location.

Fluoroscopy injections may be used to alleviate pain or to identify the origin of pain. 

Screening and Preparation

Fluoroscopy Guided Injections are minimally invasive but may require post-exam monitoring.

Prior to your appointment, you will receive a telephone call from one of UVA Imaging's Patient Liaisons.  The Liaison will provide information and ask screening questions related to your upcoming fluoroscopy guided injection.

On the day of your injection, the staff will explain the procedure to you and you will be asked screening questions.

    During a Fluoroscopy Guided Injection

    A board certified Radiologist will look at the area under x-ray (using Fluoroscopy).

    • The doctor will use sterile technique to clean the area.
    • Your skin will be numbed prior to the injection.
    • A needle will be placed in the location of the pain. 
    • A small amount of x-ray dye (contrast) will used to confirm the location.
    • Pain medicine (steroid) is then injected directly into the site.
    • The needle will be removed and a band aide will be applied to the area.
    After a Fluoroscopy Guided Injection
    • One of our nurses will stay with you after the procedure for 15-20 minutes so we can obtain a post procedure pain level.
    • You will be asked not to submerge the area in water, (including a hot tub or swimming pool) for 24 hours.  After that time, you may return to normal activities your physician has deemed appropriate.
    Arthrograms

    An arthrogram is a fluoroscopic procedure to inject contrast dye into a joint and then imaged in MRI or CT.  The contrast highlights the area being scanned and assists in obtaining the best diagnostic interpretation.

    First, one of our nurses will get you prepare for the procedure.

    An Arthrogram is a two part procedure.

    Part 1:  Contrast

    Dye (contrast) will be injected into the joint under x-ray. The doctor will numb your skin and use a needle to inject dye and numbing medicine directly into the joint. This injection will take about 15-20 minutes.

    Part 2: MRI

    After the arthrogram injection, you will then have either MRI or CT imaging performed.