A Defecography is a fluoroscopy test of the rectum. It shows rectal emptying and pelvic floor movement. Typical effective dose 1 to 3 (fluoroscopy) or none (MRI) mSv, similar to up to about 1 year of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
Defecography is a medical procedure that uses fluoroscopy to visualize the rectum and pelvic floor movement during defecation. It helps diagnose conditions like obstructed defecation and pelvic prolapse. Typically, the effective dose of radiation is 1 to 3 mSv, similar to natural background radiation over 1 year (about 3 mSv per year). The procedure is done with or without bowel preparation, depending on the study. Pregnant women should inform the staff. The procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes and results need interpretation by a qualified health professional.
Rectal emptying and pelvic floor movement.
Obstructed defecation, prolapse.
Preparation depends on the study (fasting or bowel preparation). Tell staff if pregnant.
Typical effective dose 1 to 3 (fluoroscopy) or none (MRI) mSv, similar to up to about 1 year of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
30 to 45 minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
Fluoroscopy
Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.
Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.
What does a defecating proctogram show?
Rectal emptying and pelvic floor movement.
Why is a defecating proctogram done?
Obstructed defecation, prolapse.
How do I prepare for a defecating proctogram?
Preparation depends on the study (fasting or bowel preparation). Tell staff if pregnant.
Does a defecating proctogram use radiation?
Typical effective dose 1 to 3 (fluoroscopy) or none (MRI) mSv, similar to up to about 1 year of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
How long does a defecating proctogram take?
30 to 45 minutes
Why is Defecography done?
Obstructed defecation, prolapse.
How do I prepare for Defecography?
Preparation depends on the study (fasting or bowel preparation). Tell staff if pregnant.
Is Defecography safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 1 to 3 (fluoroscopy) or none (MRI) mSv, similar to up to about 1 year of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
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