Fluoroscopy in Birds – Real-Time Imaging at Melbourne Bird Vet
- MBVC
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
At Melbourne Bird Vet, we are proud to offer advanced fluoroscopy imaging - a powerful diagnostic tool that allows our avian veterinarians to view your bird’s organs and body systems in motion and in real time. Our state-of-the-art CT system includes an integrated fluoroscopy mode, giving us the ability to see both structure and function with exceptional clarity. This technology has become invaluable in diagnosing and managing a wide range of avian health fluoroscopy-in-birds-real-time-imaging-at-melbourne-bird-vetconditions, especially those affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
What Is Fluoroscopy?
Fluoroscopy is a form of live X-ray that produces a moving image rather than a single still picture. It allows our veterinarians to watch processes as they happen inside your bird’s body - such as swallowing, digestion, breathing, or even heart movement. Because birds are small, lightweight, and highly active, their internal organs are constantly shifting and changing shape. Fluoroscopy provides a dynamic window into these systems, helping us understand not just what something looks like, but how it works.
Many Studies Performed Without Anaesthetic
One of the greatest advantages of our modern fluoroscopy equipment is that many examinations can be performed without anaesthesia. Our specialised setup allows for fast, low-dose imaging with minimal restraint, meaning birds can often be examined while awake. This reduces stress and risk, particularly for sick or fragile patients, while still giving us a detailed view of organ movement and function.
When We Use Fluoroscopy in Birds
At Melbourne Bird Vet, fluoroscopy is an important diagnostic tool for many conditions, including:
- Gastrointestinal disease: assessing crop emptying, gut motility, or possible blockages
- Swallowing difficulties: evaluating the movement of food and fluids through the oesophagus and crop
- Respiratory disorders: viewing tracheal motion, air sac expansion, or potential obstructions
- Cardiac and circulatory problems: assessing real-time heart motion and blood flow
- Reproductive issues: observing oviductal function and egg movement
Fluoroscopy has been especially useful in identifying gastrointestinal motility disorders, helping us pinpoint the exact location and nature of functional problems.
Combining CT and Fluoroscopy
Our advanced cone beam CT unit allows us to combine high-detail CT imaging with live fluoroscopy in a single session. CT provides the structural information - the fine anatomical detail, while fluoroscopy shows how those structures work in real time. Together, they give our team a complete understanding of your bird’s health and allow for faster, more accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
Why Choose Melbourne Bird Vet
Melbourne Bird Vet is one of Australia’s few bird-only veterinary clinics equipped with this advanced imaging technology. Our experienced avian veterinarians use fluoroscopy and CT daily to diagnose and manage complex cases, ensuring your bird receives the highest standard of care. With our dedicated focus on avian medicine and access to cutting-edge equipment, Melbourne Bird Vet continues to lead the way in advanced bird diagnostics and treatment.
Melbourne Bird Vet
1 George Street, Scoresby, VIC
📞 03 9764 9000
Advanced imaging. Expert care. Just for birds.