Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Introduction
We have given you this factsheet because you have an appointment for an X-ray transit study. Please make sure you read this information and follow the instructions carefully before your procedure. If you have any further questions, please speak to a member of your healthcare team who will be able to advise you.
The Procedure
Colon Transit studies are used to obtain more information about the speed with
which digested food passes through the colon. After taking some capsules over the
course of 3 days containing markers, you will need to attend the Radiology
department for a plain radiograph (X-ray) of your abdomen.
Preparation for the Examination
You should follow these instructions:
- 9 Days prior to the date of X-ray - If you take laxatives, you may take some today for the last time until the investigation is completed. No laxatives to be used for the next 9 days leading up to the day of Xray
- 5 Days prior to the date of the X-ray - At approximately 9.00am, take the two capsules (red) marked number 1
- 4 Days prior to the date of the X-ray - At approximately 9.00am, take the two capsules (white & blue) marked number 2
- 3 Days prior to the date of the X-ray - At approximately 9.00am, take the two capsules (yellow) marked number 3
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Day of Xray Appointment |
Take capsules marked number 1 at 0900 on preceding: |
Take capsules marked number 2 at 0900 on preceding: |
Take capsules marked number 3 at 0900 on preceding: |
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Wednesday |
Thursday |
Friday |
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Tuesday |
Thursday |
Friday |
Saturday |
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Wednesday |
Friday |
Saturday |
Sunday |
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Thursday |
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Monday |
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Monday |
Tuesday |
- Date of X-Ray - At 9:30am, attend the X-ray Department at any of our sites for your examination. After this, laxatives may be resumed.
On Arrival
On arrival in the department you should check in at the reception desk. Bring this letter with you and be prepared to confirm your details with the receptionist. Please allow time to do this prior to your appointment time and bear in mind that the reception may be busy. Once you have been booked in you will be directed to the waiting area. Please be aware that patients are attending for different examinations and patients who arrive after you may be called before you.
All patients aged 12-55 (regardless of gender) who will undergo a Radiology procedure will be asked about the possibility of them being pregnant.
The Examination
Once called, you will be asked to change into a gown. The Radiographer will take
you into the X-ray room and position you on a table and create an image. It is
important that you keep still when asked to do so and to hold your breath.
After the Examination
You will be free to resume your daily activities.
The Results
The Radiologist will interpret your X-rays and report the results to your referring
doctor, who will in turn discuss them with you. This can take up to 4 weeks. If you
have been referred from an Outpatient clinic, you will receive your results at your
next clinic attendance.
Risks
Everyone receives ionising radiation every day from radioactivity in the air, food we
eat and the sun. Your age, size and the body part being imaged will influence the
amount of medical radiation used and theoretical risks of additional exposure. The
benefit of the procedure is making the correct diagnosis or treatment plan and a
Radiology specialist has agreed that this benefit outweighs the risks of radiation
exposure. The radiographers are trained to obtain the best possible imaging using
the lowest amount of radiation possible and the equipment is regularly checked to
ensure it is safe and effective.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Radiology service.
About this information
Service:
Radiology
Reference:
PILS-PF.1
Approval date:
22 October 2024
Review date:
22 October 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.