Name of the Procedure:

Injection of Sinus Tract; Diagnostic (Sinogram)

Summary

A diagnostic sinogram is a medical imaging procedure that involves injecting a contrast dye into a sinus tract or abnormal channel within the body. This helps visualize the tract on X-ray or fluoroscopy to evaluate its path and any associated issues, such as infection or blockages.

Purpose

Diagnostic sinograms are used to assess the nature and extent of a sinus tract, which may have developed due to infections, surgeries, or other conditions. The primary goal is to obtain a clear image of the tract's pathway to inform appropriate treatment planning.

Indications

• Persistent or recurrent infections
• Non-healing wounds or abscesses
• Suspected fistulas
• Unexplained discharge from a surgical site
• Patients with a history of surgeries that might have led to abnormal tracts

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Inform your doctor of any allergies, especially to contrast dye or iodine.
• Any ongoing medications should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, typically lying down.
2. The area around the sinus tract is cleaned and sterilized.
3. A small needle is inserted into the opening of the sinus tract.
4. Contrast dye is slowly injected through the needle.
5. X-ray images or fluoroscopic scans are taken to visualize the dye as it moves through the tract.

6. The needle is removed, and the injection site is cleaned and bandaged.

   Minimal discomfort is expected, and no sedation is typically required.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital radiology department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Radiologic technologist
• Nurse (optional for patient comfort and support)

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort or minor pain at the injection site
• Allergic reaction to contrast dye (rare)
• Infection at the injection site (rare)
• Bleeding or hematoma (rare)

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of the sinus tract’s extent and pathway
• Informed treatment planning based on detailed visualization
• Immediate results available from the imaging

Recovery

• Minimal to no recovery time required
• You can resume normal activities immediately
• Follow any specific care instructions for the injection site

Alternatives

• CT Scan or MRI: Provides detailed images but might not specifically show the tract's path as effectively.

• Ultrasound: Non-invasive but may not provide as detailed a view.

  Each alternative has its pros and cons, which should be discussed with your healthcare provider to choose the best option.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort may be felt during the injection of the contrast dye.
• Some patients might feel pressure but no significant pain.

• Post-procedure, the injection site might feel tender but should not interfere with daily activities.

  Pain management, if needed, involves over-the-counter pain relievers.