Basics of Fluoroscopy
- DOI:
- 10.1093/med/9780199908004.003.0001
This chapter reviews the basics of fluoroscopy, including its safe use and the dangers of radiation. Although various interventions have been used to treat pain for decades, use of fluoroscopy has been more prevalent since the mid-1990s. Several studies have shown that using any form of guidance is superior to “blind” procedures, providing better outcomes while reducing the rate of complications. Ultrasound may be safer than fluoroscopy for certain procedures such as joint injections near and around blood vessels. Ultrasound avoids the harmful radiation to the patient, the treating physician, and staff, and also helps significantly by allowing the physician to visualize blood and fluid flow. Nevertheless, fluoroscopy may never be replaced for certain procedures that require full view of osseous structures or for open but minimally invasive surgical procedures such as implantable devices and intradiscal procedures.
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