What is Fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is a dynamic imaging technique that captures a live video feed of your pet’s internal systems in motion. Unlike standard radiographs (which produce a single still image), fluoroscopy allows us to observe real-time physiological processes as they happen—making it ideal for diagnosing functional disorders.

Primary Uses of Fluoroscopy at Our Hospital

1. Swallowing Studies (Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies)

One of our most important applications of fluoroscopy is the evaluation of oesophageal and aerodigestive disorders. These studies help identify:

• Swallowing dysfunction
• Megaesophagus
• Oesophageal strictures or obstructions
• Gastroesophageal reflux
• Aspiration risk

Pets are gently fed a contrast agent, and the motion of the food through the mouth, throat, and oesophagus is recorded in real time. This is the gold standard method for assessing functional swallowing abnormalities and airway protection.

2. Intraoperative Orthopaedic Imaging

Fluoroscopy is invaluable in surgery, especially for:

• Real-time fracture alignment
• Precise placement of orthopaedic implants (e.g., screws, pins, plates)
• Confirmation of joint positioning and movement

This dynamic visualisation enhances surgical accuracy and minimises the need for repeat procedures.

3. Assisted Epidural Injections

For cases requiring spinal pain management, fluoroscopy helps:

• Guide needle placement for epidurals
• Confirm contrast flow to ensure correct positioning
• Reduce complications by improving anatomical targeting

This results in safer and more effective delivery of pain relief during and after orthopaedic or neurological procedures.

Why Choose Fluoroscopy?

• Real-time visualisation of function – See how structures move and interact during activity
• Highly sensitive – Detects abnormalities that standard X-rays may miss
• Minimally invasive – Allows for guided diagnostics without the need for exploratory surgery
• Improved surgical outcomes – Enhances precision during orthopaedic interventions

Safety & Sedation

Most pets tolerate fluoroscopic procedures well. Swallowing studies are usually done while your pet is awake and calmly restrained. For intraoperative or spinal procedures, general anaesthesia or sedation is used in a controlled and monitored environment.

Referrals & Collaborative Care

We welcome referrals from external veterinarians for fluoroscopy-guided diagnostics and intraoperative assistance. Our team will work closely with referring vets to ensure continuity of care and rapid turnaround of results.

Learn More or Book a Fluoroscopy Study

📞 To discuss whether fluoroscopy is right for your pet or to refer a patient, contact us on (02) 4571 2042 or email northrichmondvet@hotmail.com.

At North Richmond Vet Hospital, our commitment to cutting-edge diagnostics means we’re always ready to see more, know more, and care more—for every pet, every time.