A contrast swallow study, in which a radio-opaque dye is swallowed by the patient and X-rays taken, often delineates the anatomy of the fistula. If the fistula involves the colon, a contrast enema, where the contrast dye is given via the rectum, may be useful.
A CT scan of the abdomen is usually obtained to determine if an abscess, or walled-off pocket of infection, is associated with the fistula.
A "fistulogram," in which radio-opaque dye is injected into the opening of the skin of an enterocutaneous fistula and X-rays taken, is often performed as well.
|