MRI FISTULOGRAM

Also Known As

Lab Test

₹8500

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About The Test

What the Scan Shows

The full course, length, and branching of a fistula
Internal opening(s) inside the anal canal
Presence of abscesses or secondary tracts
Relationship to the anal sphincter muscles

Average Duration and Safety Profile

Scan time: 25–35 minutes
Radiation exposure: Zero
Contraindications: Limited to certain implants; otherwise very safe

Types of MRI Fistulogram

Non-contrast high-resolution T2
- Ideal for most simple fistulas
- No injection required
Contrast-enhanced (Gadolinium) study
- Highlights active inflammation and abscess pockets
- Requires IV cannula and kidney-function check
  The radiologist at Cadabams Diagnostics chooses the protocol based on clinical history provided by your referring doctor.

List of Parameters

Fistula tract course and length – helps decide incision site
Internal opening location – critical to avoid muscle damage
Abscess or secondary tracts – prevents missed infection
Sphincter muscle involvement – influences surgical approach (sphincter-saving vs cutting)

Why This Test

Pre-surgical planning: Guides safe, complete removal of the tract
Recurrent or complex fistulas: Maps hidden branches missed earlier
Evaluation of Crohn’s-related fistulas: Monitors disease activity and response to treatment

When to Take Test

Benefits

Benefits of MRI Fistulogram

Non-invasive – no scopes or needles (unless contrast is chosen)
Zero ionising radiation – safe for repeated follow-ups
Precise 3-D mapping – gives surgeons confidence and reduces risk of incomplete surgery
Single-visit convenience – report ready in 2–4 hours at Cadabams Diagnostics

Diagnosed Conditions with Fistulogram MRI Scan

Simple & complex perianal fistulas
Supralevator & extrasphincteric extensions
Perianal abscess (acute or chronic)
Rarely, underlying cancer within a long-standing fistula tract

Preparing for test

Fasting: Light meal 2–4 hours before; avoid fizzy drinks
Metal screening: Fill questionnaire at reception or online
What to wear & bring:
Cotton clothes without metal zippers
Remove jewellery, watches, and credit cards
Carry any previous reports or CDs for comparison

Prerequisites

Creatinine report (within 4 weeks) only if contrast is planned
Signed consent for the scan and, if needed, IV gadolinium

Best Time to Take the MRI Fistulogram

Morning slots (7 a.m.–11 a.m.) – bowel is quieter, image quality better
Before elective surgery – schedule 1–7 days prior for freshest anatomy

Eligibility

Adults & children ≥8 years – child-friendly staff and optional sedation
Pregnancy: Generally deferred in first trimester; discuss risks vs benefits with your obstetrician

Procedure for Taking an MRI Fistulogram

Patient positioning: Lying on your stomach or back; a surface coil is placed over the buttocks.
Sequence run-time: Around 30 minutes total; several short scans with brief breaks.
Post-procedure care:

Resume normal diet immediately
If contrast given, drink extra water to flush kidneys
Leave with printed films and digital report on CD/USB

Caution Before Taking the Test

Claustrophobia or anxiety: Inform staff; mild oral sedation can be arranged.
Kidney function: eGFR <30 mL/min may limit contrast use; discuss with radiologist.

Test Results

Results and Interpretations

Finding/Observation	Description (Example)	General Interpretation / Significance (Example)
Single tract, low course	One straight channel below sphincter	Simple fistula, easier surgery
Multiple branches, high extension	Tracts crossing levator ani or up to rectum	Complex fistula, staged surgery likely
Fluid collection >2 cm	Rim-enhancing pus pocket	Active abscess, needs drainage
Enhancement at internal opening	Bright spot at dentate line	Confirmed internal opening for seton placement
Inflammation / Contrast Enhancement	Following gadolinium administration, there is avid enhancement of the fistula tract walls and the walls of the associated abscess. Surrounding soft tissues show moderate inflammatory stranding.	Indicates active fistulous inflammation or infection, guiding timing of treatment and monitoring, particularly relevant in Crohn’s disease.
Secondary Tracts / Ramifications	A secondary ‘horseshoe’ tract is noted extending from the primary tract posteriorly and coursing towards the left ischioanal fossa, without a distinct external opening on the left side.	Denotes complex fistula. All branches must be identified and addressed to prevent recurrence. Horseshoe tracts may require bilateral drainage.
Other Pelvic Findings	The visualized portions of the levator ani muscles appear normal. No other significant pelvic pathology is identified within the field of view.	Exclusion of other pelvic abnormalities (e.g., tumors, proctitis, fistulas from Crohn’s) is important for complete patient evaluation.

Risks & Limitations

MRI Safety Considerations

Absolute contraindications: Most pacemakers, cochlear implants, certain aneurysm clips
Relative checks: Orthopaedic screws, IUDs, insulin pumps
Cadabams Diagnostics performs a detailed metal-screening questionnaire and in-person review.

Limitations in Very Early or Superficial Fistulas

Tiny tracts less than 2 mm may not be visible. In such cases, clinical examination and endo-anal ultrasound remain complementary.

FAQs

Is the scan painful?

No. You’ll feel only the table movement and hear knocking sounds.

How soon can I resume normal activities?

Immediately after the scan unless sedation is used.

Will I need a follow-up scan?

Yes, often 3–6 months post-surgery to confirm healing.

What if I’m allergic to contrast?

Serious reactions are extremely rare. Tell the technologist about previous allergies; pre-medication is available.

Can MRI detect cancer in fistula tracts?

Yes, unusual thickening or enhancement prompts further evaluation.

What is the approximate MRI fistulogram cost at Cadabams Diagnostics?

The MRI Fistulogram cost can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the scan, whether contrast dye is used, and your specific insurance coverage. For precise pricing information for an MRI Fistulogram at Cadabams Diagnostics, please contact our billing department directly or visit our website. We can provide details on current rates and help you understand your insurance benefits.