Radiology - Urethrogram

Introduction

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

A urethrogram is an x-ray test, in which a small, fine catheter (plastic tube) is inserted into your urethra (the pipe which carries urine out from your bladder). A small balloon on the end of the catheter will be inflated to ensure it doesn’t fall out. Iodinated contrast (x-ray dye) is then injected through the catheter and an x-ray machine will be used to take pictures. The test will give your consultant information about possible strictures (narrowing) in your urethra.

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/radiographer who will be carrying out the urethrogram. 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 the radiologist/radiographer will apply a lubricating gel which also contains a local anaesthetic.

When the area is numb the radiologist will insert a catheter into the urethra. A small balloon is then inflated to hold the catheter in place. The radiologist/radiographer will then inject some contrast into the urethra and take some pictures using an x-ray machine.

Will it hurt?

A catheter must be placed into your urethra; this may cause you some discomfort during the procedure. The radiologist will numb the end of your penis with an anaesthetic gel that should ease the discomfort. You may also get a sensation of pressure in your urethra when the contrast is injected, especially if you have a stricture (narrowing) in that area.

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 urethrogram?

A urethrogram 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 urethrogram?

The procedure can provide diagnosis of any abnormalities of the urethra. The results can help your doctor plan the best treatment plan for your condition.

Are there any alternatives?

Unfortunately, there are no alternative procedures.

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 urethrogram 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 urethrogram?

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 2065091 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 call 0161 206 5091 if your appointment is at Salford Royal Hospital or 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