Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie". A continuous x-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined, and is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail.

Fluoroscopy is used in many types of examinations and procedures, such as barium x-rays, cardiac catheterization, and placement of intravenous (IV) catheters (hollow tubes inserted into veins or arteries).

In barium x-rays, fluoroscopy allows the physician to see the movement of the intestines as the barium moves through them.