Radiology - Cystogram

Introduction

This leaflet tells you about having a procedure known as a Cystogram. It will explain how the test is carried out and what the possible risks are.

It is not meant as a substitute for an informed discussion between you and your doctor. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to speak to the doctor caring for you.

What is a Cystogram?

This is an examination of the bladder. Iodinated contrast (x-ray dye) is put into the bladder via a catheter and images will be taken using an x-ray machine. It will show the structure and shape of the bladder and occasionally the voiding (emptying) of the bladder.

Who has made the decision?

The Consultant in charge of your case and the radiologist who will be doing the procedure, will have discussed the situation and found it appropriate for this test to be done. However, you will have the opportunity for your opinion to be considered. If after a discussion with the doctor looking after your case, you may decide against the procedure.

Who will be doing the procedure?

A Radiologist or an Advanced Practitioner Radiographer will be doing the procedure. A radiologist is a specialist trained doctor who has a special expertise in using x-ray equipment and interpreting the images produced. They will see these images whilst carrying out the procedure.

Where will the procedure take place?

The procedure will generally take place within the x-ray department, in a designated “screening” room. These rooms are adapted for specialised procedures.

What preparation is required?

There is no specific preparation before you come for your test. You can eat and drink as normal, but you will be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure. You may continue to take your regular medications as normal.

If you have any allergies, you must let your doctor know. If you have previously had an allergic reaction to the iodinated contrast (x-ray dye) that is used for CT scans you must make your doctor aware.

What does the procedure involve?

When you first arrive at the department you will be introduced to the team looking after you during your procedure. If you have any questions, you will be able to have a discussion with the radiologist or radiographer who will be carrying out the cystogram. They will then confirm that you have given your consent for the procedure, and you are happy to proceed. You will then be asked to undress and put on a hospital gown. You will then be asked to lie on your back on the x-ray table. The area will then be cleaned with a sterile cleaning fluid and the radiologist/radiographer will apply a lubricating gel which also contains a local anaesthetic.

When the area is numb, a catheter will be inserted. This is only if you don’t already have a catheter in situ. The x-ray dye will be introduced into your bladder via the catheter and images will be taken at different stages.

Will it hurt?

The placing of the catheter into your bladder may be uncomfortable but this will hopefully be reduced using the lubricating gel. As the x-ray dye is being introduced into your bladder you may feel some discomfort, especially as your bladder is getting full.

How long will it take?

There is no exact procedure time, the procedure normally takes between 15 to 30 minutes. As a guide, you should expect to be in the department for about 45 minutes altogether.

Are there any risks or complications with a cystogram?

A Cystogram is a very safe procedure and complications are a very rare occurrence. The associated risks include an allergic reaction to the iodinated contrast, but this is extremely rare. Other risks or complications include infection, bleeding and pain but these will be discussed with you by the radiologist carrying out the procedure when you attend.

What are the benefits of the cystogram?

It provides diagnosis of abnormalities of the bladder. The results of this test will help your doctor to plan the best treatment for your condition.

Are there any alternatives?

Unfortunately, there are no direct alternative procedures. Similar procedures such as cystoscopy, which uses a camera to look at the structure of the bladder and the urethra. A cystogram however, provides information on how the bladder behaves as it fills and can demonstrate reflux (back flow of dye) from the bladder up the ureters towards the kidney. It is also used to ensure the absence of a leak after recent bladder surgery so that your catheter can then be removed by the urological team.

Aftercare Advice

Following on from the test, you will be able to continue as normal with your everyday normal activities, including being able to drive straight after your procedure and going back to work. At the end of the procedure much of the contrast dye should have been removed from your bladder. The contrast can be sticky to touch, and you may notice this on your skin. It washes off easily.

How do I get the results?

The radiologist performing the cystogram may be able to let you know the results before you leave the department, if not the results will be available from the doctor looking after you shortly after.

Could you be pregnant?

If there is any chance you could be pregnant, please call 0161 206 5091 if your appointment is at Salford Royal Hospital or 0161 656 1178 if your appointment is at Royal Oldham Hospital.

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 cannot attend my appointment?

If you have any queries about your appointment or cannot attend, then please telephone the Interventional Radiology department on 0161 206 5091 if your appointment is at Salford Royal Hospital or please call 0161 656 1178 if your appointment is at Royal Oldham Hospital.

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.

I need an ambulance. How do I arrange one?

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.

If you need an interpreter

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

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:

The Angiography Department, Salford Royal Hospital
Tel: 0161 206 2206/5091

Interventional Radiology, Royal Oldham Hospital
Tel: 0161 656 1178