Visit Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy Advanced Radiology Center, as well as an NABL & NABH Accredited Diagnostic Centre, for an XRay Fistulogram. When an X-ray Fistulogram is performed, it is a special type of contrast study that can be used to help visualize the abnormal passage (fistula) and identify the direction, course, length, and communication with nearby passages. Helpful to evaluate and treat fistulas.

About X-Ray Fistulogram

An X-ray Fistulogram is a special imaging procedure performed to see a defective opening (fistula) between two surfaces or two structures. This examination will involve introducing the appropriate contrast substance into the outside opening of the fistulous tract, and X-rays are used to pass the contrast through the fistulous tract. This research can be used to help define the amount of tract, identify extension, and trace the relationship with an adjacent cavity/organ. The specific technique would be dependent on the clinical indication and location.

What is an X-Ray Fistulogram?

X-ray Fistulography is a fluoroscopic or X-ray examination in which a contrast medium is carefully instilled into an easily accessed opening in the line of the fistula. Then some X-rays are taken, which define the pathway and outline the tract. In the skin and under the skin, or selected postoperative/chronic draining fistulas may be considered. The results can provide useful information for a diagnosis, surgical planning, and subsequent treatment.

Common Reasons for X-Ray Fistulogram

• Persistent Discharge: Evaluation of a tract above where discharges are still occurring and/or recurring.
• Fistula: Investigate any questionable area which may be linked with deeper tissues in the area or other tissues.
• Following surgery - An assessment of a persisting sinus/ fistulous tract.
• The process of drawing a map which includes identifying the direction, length, and extent of a fistulous path.
• Branching: Suspected Determination of secondary tracts and/or extensions.
• Pre-operative Assessment: Giving anatomical information that may help the physician who is going to treat you for management.
• Follow-up Evaluation: For selected cases, may consider imaging to evaluate an existing fistula following treatment.

Conditions Evaluated

Fistulous Tracts

The examination will allow for an external accessible fistulous tract to be identified, and its course, length and direction of the fistulous tract determined. This could help in the diagnosis of the anatomy of an abnormal passage (the inside of that passage).

Chronic Draining Sinuses

A chronic sinus is an abnormal passage that can reach the skin from more profound structures. Obtaining a fistulogram can be helpful to describe the sinus pathway as long as it is done safely and clinically there is a reason to obtain the exam.

Postoperative Fistulas

Following surgery, the use of the same area may result in the presence of an abnormal passage or in its development. Contrast imaging may be helpful to further characterize the tract and may provide other relevant information for further management.

Communication with Adjacent Structures

The examination might help identify if a relationship exists between the tract and a cavity or whatever structure and site may be close to it, provided the location and access to the site make this examination convenient. If this is not so obvious, additional imaging might be required.

Treatment Planning

A fistulogram might provide some useful anatomic information that may help inform treatment choices for additional evaluation, surgical treatment, or other therapy.

Why Choose Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy?

A NABL & NABH accredited Diagnostic Centre, Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy provides services such as Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, and Pathology. Our imaging interpretation and reporting are focused on developing a protocol for the appropriate utilization of the examinations, producing quality imaging, and ensuring patient care and reliable reporting of the diagnostic images. The patient is informed about the procedure and collaboration with the referring physician, if required.

Book Your X-Ray Fistulogram

If your doctor has recommended an X-Ray Fistulogram, you can contact Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy for information on appointment dates and when you can be seen. It's a better idea to share your prescription and any imaging history reported previously to get a thorough review of the imaging tests requested and to inform you about the process.