This information leaflet has been produced to give you general information and is intended to answer most of your questions when your doctor has referred you to the Radiology department for a Tubogram. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and the healthcare team but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading this information you have concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.
Please contact us prior to your procedure if:
- You have allergies to contrast (X-ray dye)
- You are, or might be, pregnant
- You weigh more than 200kg (31 stone)
Why do I need this procedure?
This procedure may be required for patients that have already had a line or tube inserted. This procedure is undertaken when patients are experiencing problems using a line/tube you have in place. Your doctor or specialist nurse will refer you for a Tubogram and this will help identify the problem when using the line/tube and plan for any further treatment.
What are the benefits of the procedure?
Diagnosing whether your tube/line is suitable for use will help plan your medical management more easily.
How do I know if this is a suitable procedure for me?
Your doctor/specialist nurse has suggested this as the most suitable treatment for you. You will also be asked to give your consent for the procedure to go ahead following a discussion with a Radiologist (doctor specialising in x-ray procedures) or specialist nurse in the x-ray department. There will be plenty of time to answer any questions you may have.
Can I take my medication as normal?
All medication can be taken as normal.
What happens during the procedure?
You should arrive at the x-ray department 10 minutes before the appointment time on your letter and book in at the Radiology Reception desk.
There will be a Radiologist/senior nurse in the room who will perform the examination. They will be assisted by a radiographer and a radiology support worker, who is there to help you feel comfortable. There may also be a student in the room observing the procedure. However, if you are not happy to have a student present, you do not have to agree to this.
You may be asked to remove clothes to your underwear (depending on the position of the tube we are looking at) and put on a hospital gown. You will be given a dressing gown or you may bring your own from home if you prefer.
On entering the x-ray room the radiographer will greet you; they will then check your personal details and discuss the procedure with you. You will meet the Radiologist or senior nurse that will be performing your examination and you will be asked to give your consent before starting the examination.
You will be asked to lie flat on the x-ray table with a pillow under your head and you will be awake during the procedure. There will be a member of staff nearby at all times to support you.
During the procedure
The area around your tube/line will be cleaned before the procedure. The doctor or senior nurse will then use x-rays to see the position of the line/tube. Contrast (x-ray dye) is injected through the tube. X-rays will be taken at the same time and will show the position of the tube/line.
At the end of the procedure
You will be shown back to a private changing cubicle so you can get changed back into your clothes, then you are free to leave the department.
What happens after the procedure?
If you are an outpatient, you will be able to go home once the procedure is finished.
If you are in inpatient you will return to the ward.
Providing the Tubogram clearly shows the line/tube is in the correct position and it can be used safely then nothing further needs to be done. The radiology staff will inform your doctor/specialist nurse of this.
If the procedure suggests that the line/tube needs repositioning or replacing, then your doctor/specialist nurse will be informed and they will discuss how this happens with you. This procedure is not usually carried out on the same day as your Tubogram.
Are there any risks?
There is a very small risk that you may be allergic to the x-ray dye used during the procedure.
If you think you may have had an allergic reaction you should see your GP.
How soon will I be back to normal?
You will be able to go home or back to the ward straight away following your procedure.
If you have any concerns do not hesitate to contact your GP or the radiology department on the number below.
What happens if I decide not to have the procedure?
You will be referred back to the doctor or nurse who recommended the Tubogram to discuss it further as there is currently no alternative procedure.
What if I have any special requirements?
If you have any special needs or requirements please discuss this with the nurse or doctor at your appointment or contact the x-ray staff on the number below.
Where can I get more information?
If you feel your concern is urgent, contact NHS 111