Proctography / Defaecography

For symptoms such as constipation or faecal incontinence, pelvic floor issues or rectal prolapse, this test investigates any problems you may have when trying to open your bowels.

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What is a proctography / defaecography test?

This test is used to investigate any problems you may have when trying to open your bowels. Barium paste (which shows up on X-ray) is inserted into your rectum via a finger-sized examining scope until you have the urge to empty your bowels.

You will then sit on a specially designed toilet in front of an X-ray machine and given instructions to open your bowels to pass the barium out of your back passage. We will strive to give you as much privacy as possible during the test.

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How it works

Your test will be conducted by your physiologist in a private room with a chaperone present. They will explain your test to you and ask questions about your symptoms. You will then be asked to get changed into a gown and lie on the couch ready for your test.

Your physiologist will insert barium paste (which shows up on X-ray) into your rectum using a finger-sized examining scope until you have the urge to open your bowels.

We will then ask you to sit on a specially designed toilet in front of an X-ray screen. You will then be asked to open your bowels to pass the barium out of your back passage. You will be given privacy while you are doing this behind a screen in a darkened room.

Download the information leaflet

Preparing for your test

Before you test, there are some things we ask you to do, to ensure safety and accurate results. This includes stopping certain medication and fasting for a short period.

Please read our patient information leaflet for full details.

The day of your test

  • You may eat and drink as normal and continue with any normal medication

    You do not need any special preparation for your test.

Getting your test results

The results will be displayed as an X ray that can be analysed by our clinical team to investigate any problems you may have when trying to open your bowels.

Your data will be analysed and results written up into a report within 24 hours. The report will be sent to both you and your referring consultant/doctor, who will explain the results to you in a follow-up consultation and find the next step for managing your symptoms.

Paying for your test

Self-paying: If you are paying for this test yourself and not through insurance, the cost will be £1,185.

This cost includes the proctogram/ defaecography test, analysis and report.

Insurance coverage

If you have private medical insurance, most companies can cover this for you.

Got a question or want to find out more about our tests?

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