The Princess Alexandra Hospital

NHS Trust

FISTULOGRAM
What is a Fistulogram?
Any other questions?
A fistulogram is a way of outlining any small track or
wound, usually opening onto the skin, by injecting an
X-ray dye (contrast medium) through a fine tube
placed in the opening.
Are there any risks?

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All X-ray procedures involve exposure to radiation in

varying amounts. The duration and level of exposure
to X-rays is strictly controlled and kept to the
minimum necessary.
The contrast medium we use is very safe and it is
extremely rare to have a serious reaction when having
a fistulogram. Please inform a member of staff if you
suffer from any allergies.

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Are you required to make any special preparations?

No.
Could you be pregnant?
Please advise the department if you are, or might be
pregnant BEFORE starting your examination.
When you arrive
Please report to the main reception desk in the
hospital.
Upon collection
You will be shown to a private cubicle where you will
be asked to take off your outer garments. You will be
asked to put on the hospital gown; you may want to
bring your own dressing gown.

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Meeting your needs
We can provide
information about our
service in different
formats and adapt the
ways we communicate
with you depending on
your needs. For example,
we can use Braille, large
print or different
languages. Please let us
know what your particular
needs are and we will do
our best to help.
You can contact us about
accessibility by
telephoning 01279
827211.

The Princess Alexandra Hospital

NHS Trust

FISTULOGRAM
Who will you see?
You will usually be cared for by a small team including a radiologist and a
radiographer. During the examination, they will be watching a television screen and
taking separate X-ray films. Later on the radiologist will review the X-ray images and
issue a report.
What happens during the investigation?
You will be taken into the X-ray room and asked to lie on the table. The area of skin
involved will be exposed and cleaned well. The radiologist will then gently insert a fine
tube into the opening and inject a little clear dye through it. While the dye is going in
the doctor will be looking at the area on the camera and taking some pictures.
Will it be uncomfortable?
No, generally you should not experience too much discomfort.
How long will it take?
Usually it should take no more than 30 minutes.
Are there any side effects?
Occasionally there may be a little discomfort but most people do not feel anything.
When will you get the results?
After the procedure, the images will be examined further by the radiologist, who will
then write a report on the findings.
If you have a query
If you have a query about having the fistulogram, please ring the radiology
department on 01279 827179.