Radiology - Contrast Study via Stoma

Please read the information and follow the instructions carefully.

Why do you need a contrast study of your bowel via your stoma?

Your doctor has decided that you need an investigation of your small or large bowel. This test may be performed as part of a series of other tests.

What is a bowel contrast study via a stoma?

It is an examination of your small or large bowel. Contrast (x-ray dye, a colourless liquid) which shows up on x-rays is used to fill your bowel so that we can see it clearly using x-rays.

Who has made this decision?

Your doctor thinks you need this examination to look at your bowel. However, if you do not want the procedure, discuss it with your doctor and then let us know if you decide not to have it. The contact details are at the end of this leaflet.

Who will be doing the examination?

A specialist doctor or a specially trained radiographer will perform your examination. They are trained to use the x-ray equipment and to understand the images produced. They need to look at these images while carrying out the procedure, to make sure that everything your doctor is interested in is included.

How do I prepare for the examination?

Sometimes we may ask you to restrict your diet. If this is necessary, a leaflet explaining this will be enclosed with this patient information. If you are unsure or have any queries, please telephone a Radiographer on 0161 206 4941.

What happens during the examination?

You will need to undress and put on a hospital gown. You may bring a dressing gown.

During the examination you will be asked to lie on the x-ray table. A small soft plastic tube will be inserted into your stoma. Contrast (x-ray dye) will be put through the tube into your bowel so that your bowel can be seen on the x-rays taken.

You may be asked to move into different positions and the table may be tilted while the x-rays are taken. We will give you clear instructions and help you to do this.

Once the procedure is finished the tube will be removed and you will be shown to a private toilet next to the x-ray room where you can get changed and then go home.

You will need to bring spare stoma bags with you to change your bag after the examination.

Will it hurt?

The examination may be a little uncomfortable. You may get cramp-like pains in your tummy. It should not be painful.

How long will it take?

The examination usually takes around 40 minutes.

What happens next?

Contrast will come back out into your stoma bag. Depending on your previous surgery, some contrast may pass from your back passage, some mucus may come out with the contrast.

The results of your examination will be sent to the doctor who referred you.

Are there any risks or complications?

It is a safe examination but there are some risks and complications that can arise:

• You may feel mild to moderate cramps in your tummy

Is x-ray guidance dangerous?

All x-ray machines use potentially harmful x-rays. Modern equipment is designed to keep the dose you receive as low as possible. If your doctor has asked for this test, they will have decided that the benefits from the procedure outweigh the risks from the very small dose of radiation that you receive.

What if I decide not to have the examination done?

You will be able to discuss any concerns you have with the radiologist or radiographer. If you decide not to go ahead with the examination, we will write to your referring doctor to let them know.

Are there any alternatives to this procedure?

Other procedures can be done to look at your bowel. These are Endoscopy (a camera test), MRI scan or a CT scan. These investigations may not be suitable for you so you should discuss them with your consultant. The benefit of a contrast study is that the doctor can watch a live, moving image of your bowel on an x-ray screen.

What if I’m pregnant?

As x-rays can harm unborn babies, if there is any chance you could be pregnant, please call 0161 206 4941 if your appointment is at Salford Royal Hospital or 0161 656 1178 if your appointment is at Royal Oldham Hospital.

All persons of childbearing age will be asked if they could be pregnant when x-rays are to be used.

If you require alternative tests or treatments due to pregnancy, then your doctor will discuss this at your next appointment.

What if I cannot attend for my appointment?

If you have any queries about your appointment or cannot attend, then please telephone the booking office on 0161 206 2044 or 0161 206 2404 (Salford Royal Hospital) or 0161 624 0420 (Royal Oldham Hospital) available Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.00pm.

You can also email booking.radiology@nca.nhs.uk (Salford Royal Hospital) or bookingandscheduling.outpatients@nca.nhs.uk (Royal Oldham Hospital).

Please include name, date of birth, address and hospital number (if known) in any correspondence.

Interpreters

If you need an interpreter for your examination, please call the department so that we can try to arrange this.

I need an ambulance. How do I arrange this?

If you need an ambulance there are contact details on your appointment letter.

Please contact us if you are arriving by ambulance so we can time your appointment with your ambulance arrival. If we are not aware that you are coming by ambulance you may miss your appointment and it may have to be rebooked.

Contact Details

We hope your questions have been answered by this leaflet.

If you require help or any other information regarding your appointment you can contact: -
Fluoroscopy Department, Salford Royal Hospital Tel: 0161 206 4941
Interventional Radiology, Royal Oldham Hospital Tel: 0161 656 1178

Websites

For general information about radiology departments, visit The Royal College of Radiologists’ website:
www.goingfora.com www.rcr.ac.uk