CT FISTULOGRAM

What is a CT Fistulogram?

It is a diagnostic procedure that creates detailed images of the fistula tract and its surrounding tissue after the contrast dye is injected into the external opening of the fistula area. This contrast material highlights the path of the fistula tract and helps in determining if there is any abnormality present. Doctors recommend CT fistulogram before the surgery, also so that they can identify any problem at an early stage and be well prepared for surgery. 

How does the CT Fistulogram test work?

X-rays are nothing but a form of radiation; they pass through the body very easily. Your technician will aim the X-ray at the desired location of your body, and then the small radiation will pass through that desired area. This radiation records an image

Different body parts absorb different amounts of radiation for example,bone absorbs more radiation compared to soft tissues, due to which bone appears white and soft tissues appear grey in an X-ray. In CT fistulogram doctor also uses a fluoroscopy technique, which uses an X-ray beam to create an image and project it on a video monitor. This fluoroscopy technique allows doctors to view internal organs in motion.

Why does the doctor recommend a CT Fistulogram?

CT Fistulogram is recommended by the doctor for these common uses listed below:

• To determine the shape and size of the fistula so that a proper treatment plan can be designed for the patient.
• A fistula is generally formed between a hollow organ, such as the anus, vagina, bowel, or bladder. They can be due to infection or any surgery, it can also occur due to Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
• This test is done to assess the fistula
• To assess the abscess after the drainage 
• If the patients have continuous drainage and pain
• Frequent pain
• Reappearance of infection
• If the doctor is have suspicion of an internal connection from the skin opening
• Patient have a family history of Crohn’s disease

How do I prepare for a CT Fistulogram?

• Avoid lifting heavy weights before the test
• Avoid riding vehicle and doing strenuous exercises
• Avoid tight fitted clothes if they are covering fistula
• Wear comfortable and loose-fitted clothes
• Remove all kinds of metallic objects before entering the machine, such as jewellery, hairpins, watches, etc. Metallic objects interfere with the quality of the images generated, that is why before entering the exam room,  remove all such items.
• Your healthcare provider will ask you not to eat or drink anything 4-5 hours before the exam. Inform your doctor if you are taking any medication and if you have any kind of allergy or health condition
• Women should also inform their healthcare provider if they are pregnant of if there is any chance that they may get pregnant. Inform your doctor, also if you are breastfeeding, as contrast material requires at least 24 hours to get out of the body.

How does it happen during the CT Fistulogram procedure?

• An area around the fistula will be cleaned with the help of an antiseptic agent, and a numbing agent or local anaesthetic will be administered to that area for your comfort
• Technologists now position you onto the scanner table. You will be positioned in a way that your technician can easily view the fistula, and you need to stay still; excessive movements distort the image quality generated by the equipment.
• The technician will now use a thin tube-like equipment to insert it into the fistula opening and secure the catheter.
• Now, a contrasting due is injected into the catheter slowly and gently to avoid rupturing the tract
• After the injection of contrast dye scan will be done. Your technician will ask you to hold still. 
• After the scan is done, your technician will remove the catheter and put the bandage on the puncture site of the skin, and also cover and bandage the fistula opening.

What are the risks and benefits of CT Fistulogram?

Risk:

• Allergy to contrast
• For patients who have kidney disease or are at the borderline of having kidney disease, administering a contrast material into their bodies can further damage the kidneys.
• Contrast can damage the skin if it is leaked into the body by mistake
• Breastfeeding and pregnant women should always inform their doctor about their condition
• There might be a small amount of bleeding from the fistula  

Benefits:

• It is a fast and simple procedure
• It requires less time; the whole procedure of creating an image requires only a few seconds, and the preparatory phase is the main time-consuming, not the actual scan.
• It is less expensive
• Side effect of contrast is rare

What is the CT Fistulogram test price in Delhi?

The CT Fistulogram test price in Delhi may range from INR 3000 to 10000, The prices may vary based on the location and the services provided by the diagnostic test centres. City X-ray Clinic provides the best rate in Delhi for the CT Fistulogram test with reliable results. You can visit the website to know more details about how to book your CT Fistulogram test in Delhi.

Conclusion

A CT Fistulogram is the most commonly ordered test, as it is non-invasive, fast and inexpensive. Before choosing the diagnostic centre for CT Fistulogram, make sure that the diagnostic center is equipped with the latest technology and the best healthcare providers so that you can get accurate results. You can book your CT Fistulogram from the most trusted City X-Ray clinic Scan in the city, called City X-ray.