Contrast filling lumens

Principle

• Contrast is instilled into the tubular organ that is being studied and x-rays are then taken.

Example Procedures

• GI studies
• Voiding cystourethrogram
• Retrograde pyelogram
• Fistulogram

How it is done

• Upper GI: Patient swallows contrast and x-rays of the esophagus, stomach and abdomen are taken to follow the course of the contrast in the GI tract.
• Lower GI: Contrast is instilled into the colon, via an enema, and x-rays are taken.
• Voiding Cystourethrogram: Contrast is instilled into the bladder and x-rays taken during micturition.
• Contrast injected into the fistula to see the course of the tract.

Example Indications

• Upper GI: Peptic ulcer.
• Lower GI: Cancer colon.
• Voiding Cystourethrogram: Pyelonephritis in children, urethral stricture or rupture (trauma).

Limitation

• Fiberoptic endoscopy has replaced most of the GI studies.
• Endoscopy has the advantage of direct visualization of the lesion, ability to biopsy and the ability to take therapeutic action, e.g. removal of a suspicious polyp.
• A lower GI study requires proper cleansing of the bowel.
• Does require fluoroscopy, adding radiation exposure.

Cost: $$