Radiology - T-Tube Cholangiogram

What is a T-tube cholangiogram?

A T-tube cholangiogram is a special x-ray investigation that is carried out using x-ray dye to visualise the bile ducts after you have had your gallbladder removed. The bile ducts drain bile from the liver into the duodenum (first part of the small bowel). This investigation will help show any stones remaining in the bile ducts.

Who performs your investigation?

A radiologist will carry out this investigation assisted by a radiographer. Radiologists are specially trained to interpret the images and carry out more complex examinations. They are supported by radiographers who are highly trained to carry out x-rays and other imaging procedures.

What does the test involve?

You will need to change into a hospital gown. In an x-ray examination room, you will be asked to lie down on the table, dye will be injected through your T-tube and x-ray images taken. At the end of the procedure, the drainage bag will be replaced on your tube.

Is there any special preparation for this investigation?

There isn't any special preparation required before the investigation, but it would be useful if you could bring a spare bag to replace the one that will be removed to be able to do the investigation.

How long does it take and is it a painful procedure?

It will take about 30mins to do the examination. It is not a painful procedure.

Are there any side effects/after-effects?

There are no side effects or after-effects from this procedure.

Important - 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 call 0161 656 1178 if your appointment is at Royal Oldham Hospital.

This examination does involve using a small amount of radiation. This dose is kept to a minimum to reduce the risks to yourself.

This appointment for x-ray must fall within the first 28 days of your menstrual cycle, counting the day you start your period as day 1.

If this appointment does not fall within these 28 days, if you have any questions regarding your investigation, or if you are at all uncertain, please use the contact details above. It is important that this rule is adhered to.

How do you get the results of your investigation?

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

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 booking office on 0161 206 2044/2404 (Salford Royal Hospital) or 0161 624 0420 (Royal Oldham Hospital) 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.

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