Radiology - Loopogram

Introduction

This leaflet tells you about having a procedure known as a Loopogram. 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 Loopogram?

A Loopogram is an x-ray examination done for patients who have a stoma (opening of the bowel out onto the surface of the abdomen). Iodinated contrast (x-ray dye) is then introduced through the stoma in order to check the functionality of the stoma and visualise the bowel extending to the stoma.

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?

You might be asked to stop eating and drinking for a couple of hours prior to your test, this can vary so please follow the instructions on your appointment letter. You may continue to take your regular medications as normal. Please bring a spare stoma bag with you to your appointment. 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/radiographer who will be carrying out the loopogram. The radiologist/radiographer 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 a tube will be inserted into the stoma and a balloon will be inflated to ensure the tube stays in place. X-ray dye will be injected down the tube and some images will be taken.

Will it hurt?

You may experience a bloated feeling due to the x-ray dye distending the bowel.

How long will it take?

There is no exact procedure time, the procedure normally takes between 20 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 loopogram?

A Loopogram 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. There is also a very small risk of bowel perforation. X-rays are used during the procedure; these can be harmful, but your procedure is a very small amount of radiation dose, so the risk is low.

What are the benefits of the Loopogram?

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

Are there any alternatives?

There are a variety of scans such as CT, ultrasound or x-rays. These will show some aspects of your stoma/bowel, but it will not show the function.

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.

How do I get the results?

The radiologist performing the Loopogram 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.

What if I decide not to have the Loopogram?

If you attend for your appointment and after a discussion with the radiologist you decide against having the test, then we will write to your referring doctor. They will then discuss your options for further treatment with you, at your next appointment in clinic.

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