15335 Loopogram

Overview

A loopogram is an imaging test. It uses X-rays and a special dye called contrast to look at a urinary diversion, such as an ileal conduit. A urinary diversion is a surgically made pathway that carries urine from your body to a bag outside your body, through an opening called a stoma. The test helps your care team see whether urine flows well and whether there are narrow areas, leaks, or blockages.

Loopograms are a common follow-up test for people who have an ileal conduit or another urinary diversion, but they are not routine for everyone.

It is used for people of any age who have a urinary diversion, most often after surgery to remove the bladder. It can also be used in children with certain urinary tract surgeries.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A loopogram is a test, not an illness, so it does not cause symptoms of its own. It may be suggested if you have:
• Blood in your urine or in your stoma bag
• Repeated urine or kidney infections
• Pain in your side, back, or lower belly
• Leakage around your stoma or from your bag
• Changes in how much urine comes out
• Swelling or changes in kidney function found on other tests

Symptoms in children

• Children do not get symptoms from the test itself. A loopogram may be done if a child with a urinary diversion has fever, urine leakage, poor urine output, or repeated infections.
• Children may need extra reassurance, a parent or carer with them, and simple explanations before and during the test.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults do not get symptoms from the test itself. Seek advice sooner if there is confusion, falls, very low urine output, fever, or weakness, as these can be signs of infection or dehydration.
• Tell the care team about memory problems, frailty, or mobility needs so they can support you during the appointment.

Causes

Main causes

• A loopogram is done to check a urinary diversion, such as an ileal conduit, for narrowing, blockage, leaks, or urine flowing backward.
• It may be used to look into blood in the urine, repeated infections, pain, or changes in kidney function.
• It can also help plan surgery or check how a diversion is healing after surgery.

Risk factors

• Having a urostomy or ileal conduit
• Previous bladder or pelvic surgery
• Radiation treatment to the pelvis
• Repeated urinary or kidney infections
• Kidney swelling, stones, or narrowing of the conduit

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Fever, shaking chills, or feeling very unwell
• Severe pain in your belly, back, or side
• Very little or no urine from your stoma
• A red, swollen, or very painful stoma
• Vomiting or signs of dehydration
• New or worsening leakage

Book a routine appointment if:

• Before the test, ask about preparation, allergies, and whether someone should come with you.
• If you have mild changes in your stoma or urine, or need stoma supplies, contact your care team.
• If you feel anxious about the test, tell your GP or hospital team so they can explain what will happen.

Diagnosis

Your doctor may ask about your symptoms, your stoma, and your medical history. They may then arrange a loopogram to see how your urinary diversion is working.

Tests that may be done

• Loopogram using X-rays and contrast dye
• Urine tests to check for infection
• Blood tests to check kidney function
• Ultrasound or CT scan if more detail is needed

What to expect at your appointment

You will usually lie on an X-ray table. Your stoma area is cleaned, and a small soft tube is gently placed into the stoma. Contrast dye flows in, and X-rays are taken. You may feel coolness or fullness. The test often takes about 30 to 60 minutes. You can usually eat and drink normally beforehand unless your team tells you otherwise.

Treatment

A loopogram is not a treatment. It is a test that helps your care team decide what care you need. If the result is normal, you may not need any treatment. If a problem is found, your team will discuss options with you.

Self-care at home

• Drink enough fluids after the test unless your team gives different advice.
• Keep your stoma area clean and dry.
• Watch for fever, pain, or changes in urine output.
• Follow any instructions from your hospital or stoma nurse.
• Contact your care team if you feel unwell or have concerns.

Medical treatments

Treatment depends on what the loopogram shows. If it shows an infection, your care team may prescribe medicines. If it shows a narrowing, a small procedure may be used to widen it. If it shows a leak or severe blockage, surgery may be needed. You will be referred to the right specialist for your needs.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be considered if the loopogram finds a severe blockage, a leak, or damage that cannot be fixed with simpler treatments. Your surgeon and urology team will explain the benefits and risks and help you decide.

Living with this condition

If you have a urostomy, day-to-day care includes emptying the bag regularly, keeping the skin around the stoma clean, and watching for changes. Keep in touch with your stoma nurse for practical advice.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a routine for emptying and changing your bag.
• Carry spare supplies when you go out.
• Tell your care team about travel or work needs.
• Ask for help if stoma care feels difficult.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet and drink enough fluids unless your team gives different advice. Regular movement helps your general health. Some people notice that certain foods affect urine smell or output, and you can learn what works best for you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Tests and stoma care can cause worry, embarrassment, or low mood. These feelings are common and can be treated. Talk to your GP or hospital team. If you feel very low or have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local crisis service or emergency number right away.

Prevention

A loopogram is a test, so it cannot be prevented. The need for it may be reduced by good stoma care, treating infections early, and keeping follow-up appointments.

Vaccines

Not applicable. A loopogram is an imaging test, not an infection that vaccines prevent.

Screening programmes

Not applicable as a general screening test. A loopogram is used when your care team has a specific reason to check a urinary diversion.

Complications

If left untreated

• A narrowing or blockage that is not checked can cause urine to build up and harm the kidneys.
• An infection that is not treated can become serious.
• A leak can cause pain and infection.

Long-term outlook

Most people have a loopogram without problems, and any findings can usually be managed. Checking early helps protect kidney health and keeps you comfortable. Your care team will make a plan with you.

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