An intravenous pyelogram is a special radiologic examination of the urinary tract, which includes kidneys, ureters, and bladder.

Because standard x-rays detect only bony structures of the body, a special dye (or contrast agent) is given intravenously to outline the image of soft tissues. As the contrast medium travels through the bloodstream, it passes through the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, making it possible to make permanent x-ray images of these organs.

Before the Exam

You will need to complete a bowel prep that will be provided to you with instructions by the CRH Imaging Department. There are also dietary restrictions the day prior to your examination that will be provided to you with your prep kit.

You will need to be NPO, meaning no foods or liquids, after midnight the night before your scheduled examination. For example, if you are scheduled on Monday, you will need to not eat or drink anything after midnight Sunday evening. If you are taking any diabetic medication, please check with your physician as to whether or not to take these medications the morning of the exam.

Please alert the technologist if you have ever experienced any problems with an IV contrast or dye.

If you are or suspect you might be pregnant, let your doctor, nurse or technologist know immediately.

During the Exam

For this exam, you will be asked to remove your clothing and wear a gown.

You will be asked to lie on an x-ray table, and the technologist may ask a few simple questions before the exam begins. A preliminary x-ray will be taken.

Next, the contrast medium will be injected into a vein in your arm.

After the dye is well on its way through your system, you will be asked to change positions and hold very still as the X-rays are taken. Some exams require X-rays of a full bladder as well as an empty one, so you may be asked to empty your bladder in the course of the x-ray series.

After all the x-rays have been taken, you will be asked to wait as the technologist checks the images for clarity. If more x-rays are needed, they will be taken at this time. On occasion, you may be asked to return sometime later for a delayed follow-up x-ray picture.

How Long Will the Exam Take?

The exam usually takes about an hour. It is recommended that you allow more time for your entire visit.

After the Exam

Most patients are able to return to normal diet and activities immediately following the test. The contrast agent is naturally eliminated from your system and should not discolor stools or urine.

Finding Out the Results

A board certified radiologist will interpret your exam, and the results will be phoned, faxed or mailed to your physician promptly. He/she will then share the results with you.

Why Does My Doctor Want Me To Have This Exam?

Your doctor has asked you to have this exam to evaluate your urinary tract. Several of the most common reasons to undergo this test are:

• Pain
• Blood in the urine
• Urinary tract infections
• Difficulty with urination

What Can An IVP Tell My Doctor?

Among the many conditions that may be diagnosed from an IVP exam are:

• Stones
• Enlarged Prostate
• Injuries
• Tumors

IVP's are sometimes obtained prior to pelvic surgery in order to visualize the urinary system. This is only a partial list and your doctor may have a more specific reason for ordering this test for you. Please consult your doctor if you have specific questions as to why this test was ordered.

If You Want More Information.

Please feel free to call the CRH Imaging Services department at 918-225-8220.