What is a Loopogram and what does it do?
Whenever there is a large amount of bladder removed, usually due to cancer, the ureters can be connected to a loop of small bowel (ileum) which drains out of an ostomy (also called an ileal conduit) into an external drainage bag. The x-ray exam involves placing a small foley catheter into the conduit and injecting contrast to evaluate the bowel loop, ureters, and kidneys.
Who performs the test?
The exam itself is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida.
Where does it take place?
At Jackson Hospital in the Radiology Department.
How long does it take?
Usually 30 minutes to an hour.
What can I do to make it a success?
- Bring your orders with you when you come for your x-ray.
- If you are pregnant, please let your physician know BEFORE you come to hospital for your study.
- Be sure to follow any preparation instructions you were given.
- It is recommended that you wear loose, comfortable clothing for the exam. You will need to remove any metallic objects that may be in the path of the x-ray beam (belts, zippers, piercings, etc). To reduce the risk of valuables being lost, it is recommended that they be removed prior to entering the exam room or simply left at home.
What should I do before the exam?
Take nothing by mouth 8 hours prior to your exam. You may take your medications with a minimal amount water.
What happens during the exam?
- You will be asked to dress in a patient gown.
- Loopography involves inflating the ileal conduit with a 14 French Foley catheter and a 5mL balloon. To prevent contrast media from leaking out at the stoma site, the catheter is inserted, a 5mL balloon inflated, and gentle traction applied. The conduit is then filled with contrast media through a gravitational drip.
- Drainage films and fluoroscopy are performed to show the position, length, and condition of the ileal conduit but also to determine the ability or inability of the conduit to practice reflux.
- You will be positioned for your exam based on the area of the body to be x-rayed. This could be standing, sitting or lying down in various positions on the exam table.
- Most exams require multiple views or positions of the body part for adequate evaluation.
What should I do after the exam?
The radiologist will review your image(s) and a final report will go to your ordering physician in 24–48 hours.
Contact Information:
Hospital (main operator): (850) 526-2200
Radiology Department: (850) 718-2580
4250 Hospital Drive • Marianna, Florida 32446-1917 • 850-526-2200