Radiology - Defeacating Proctogram

Please read the information and follow the instructions carefully.

Why do I need a Defaecating Proctogram?

Your doctor has decided that you need an investigation of your rectum (back passage), to see how the muscles work when you try to go to the toilet. This test may be performed as part of a series of other tests.

What is a Defaecating Proctogram?

It is an examination of your rectum (back passage) and will see how it works when you try to empty your bowels.

Who has made the decision?

Your doctor has decided that this examination will help to see what happens when you go to the toilet to empty your bowels. It may help to explain some of your symptoms.

Who will be doing the Defaecating Proctogram?

A doctor called a Radiologist or a specially trained radiographer. They are specialists in using x-ray equipment and in understanding 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.

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 happens during a Defaecating Proctogram?

During the examination you will be lying on the x-ray table.

A digital rectal examination will be performed (radiographer uses their finger to check for any problems inside your bottom) and then a small tube will be inserted into your rectum (back passage). Barium paste is put through this tube and the tube is then removed.

You will be asked to sit on a bedpan. When comfortable you will be asked to try to pass the barium into the bedpan. The radiologist or radiographer will watch the examination on the x- ray screen. A recording of the x-ray image is taken to help understand how your muscles move. After the procedure you will be shown to a private toilet which is next to the x-ray room.

Although you may find this examination embarrassing, it is a very routine examination, and the staff will do everything to put you at ease.

Will it hurt?

The examination may be a little uncomfortable but should not be painful.

How long will it take?

Generally, the examination takes around 20 minutes, but occasionally may take longer. You will need to allow extra time after the examination to use the toilet and make sure you are comfortable before you leave the department.

What happens next?

If some of the barium is still within your rectum the radiographer will give you a Glycerine suppository to use when you get home to prevent you becoming constipated.

The results of your examination will be sent to the hospital consultant who referred you for this test. They will contact you once they have looked at your results.

Are there any risks or complications?

Defaecating Proctogram is a safe examination, but there are some risks and complications that can arise:

• It is possible that a little bleeding occurs from the back passage following the test, but this generally stops without the need for any action
• The barium can stay in your rectum for a few days and may make your stools (poo) look pale and chalky. This is normal. You may use your regular laxative or ask your GP or Pharmacist for advice

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 Defaecating Proctogram done?

You will be able to discuss any concerns you have with the radiologist or radiographer. If you then 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 which to see how your rectum works. These include manometry (pressure tests); however, these investigations are often needed as well as this procedure. The benefit of a defaecating proctogram is that it shows a live image of how the muscles in your back passage work.

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