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What is an intravenous urogram?
The IVU is an x-ray procedure using contrast medium that shows the size, placement and function of the parts of the renal tract, which is made up of the kidneys, the ureters (tubes from the kidneys to the bladder) and the bladder.
When is this test used?
This test is sometimes used to locate the site and identify the underlying problem when the flow of urine is obstructed. IVU can also show abnormal connections between the urinary tract and the skin or other organs.
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Pre Examination |
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Please phone us for an appointment.
If you have had a previous IVU, kidney ultrasound or CT please bring your films and/ or report with you.You will not be able to eat or drink for three hours prior to this test, which usually takes between 45 and 60 minutes to perform. At the start you will be asked to undress leaving on only your underclothes. The radiographer will give you a gown like a big T-shirt to wear.
Female patients - please let us know prior to this test if you are, or think you may be, pregnant.
If you have allergies, are an asthmatic or have impaired kidney (renal) function, please let us know when you make the appointment and when you arrive for your appointment. Prior to the examination, we will give you information on contrast media, and will ask you to sign a consent form. If you have any questions, please discuss these with the radiographer or radiologist. |
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The Examination |
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A radiologist and a radiographer will be in the room with you during this test. They will explain the procedure, but don't hesitate to ask them if you do not understand any part of the procedure.
You will be asked to lie on an x-ray table where the radiographer will take a preliminary film of your abdomen.
The doctor will then give you an injection of contrast medium into your arm. After this, a series of films will be taken over the next 30 minutes as the dye passes through your renal tract. At one stage of the procedure, a tight band may be placed on your lower abdomen to help us obtain maximum filling of the kidneys before the contrast medium flows down into the bladder.
At the end of the examination, you will be asked to empty your bladder, then another film will be taken to see the empty bladder. Sometimes the contrast medium takes some time to go through the kidneys and this results in an extended examination time.
Contrast medium is a fluid that is opaque to x-rays, is concentrated in the kidneys and goes into the bladder before being passed out in your urine. It is colourless, so you cannot see it when you go to the toilet.
Aside from the minor sting from the injection as the contrast medium is injected, some people report feeling a warm flush, and sometimes have a metallic taste in their mouth.
These things usually disappear within a minute or two, and are no cause for alarm. Should you become itchy or short of breath, let the radiologist know straight away, as you may have a slight reaction to the contrast, which can be eased with antihistamines.
If you have asthma or severe allergies, the radiologist may suggest you take a steroid, or use other imaging options. Remember, the radiologist will discuss this with you and your doctor, before the procedure. |
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Post Examination |
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After the radiologist has seen your x-rays and the test is complete, you can go home, and you can eat and drink normally. The contrast medium is passed out of the body very quickly and, as it is clear, you will not notice it in your urine.
Your images will be sent to you or your doctor with a copy of the radiologist's interpretation of the study.
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