Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

Your physician has referred you to the Diagnostic Services Department at United Hospital Center for an Intravenous Pyelogram. This is a contrast enhanced x-ray exam of your kidneys, ureters, and bladder.

For the exam to be successful, your lower digestive tract must be clean because your kidneys, ureters, and bladder lie behind the bowel. Therefore, you must take a preparation consisting of laxatives and suppositories so your urinary tract can be clearly visualized. However, clear liquids may be taken for breakfast the morning of the exam (water, clear fruit juice, black coffee, unsweetened tea). Your medications may be taken, as usual. For this exam you will be asked to wear a hospital gown. You will need to answer several questions before starting the exam and you will be asked to sign a consent form before the exam begins.

The technologist will then assist you onto the x-ray table and you will be asked to lie on your back. Pillows or sponges may be used to prop up your knees or head if you feel more comfortable that way. Let the technologist know this before x-rays are taken, as it is important to lay very still during the exam. The technologist will then take a preliminary film of your abdomen which will be shown to a radiologist.

It will be necessary for a small needle to be inserted into a vein in your arm or hand. Tubing will be connected to this needle and an iodinated contrast material will be allowed to flow into your veins. This is necessary to visualize your kidneys, ureters, and bladder which cannot be seen on x-ray film without the contrast material. As the contrast material enters your body, you may feel warm all over and you may get a funny taste in your mouth. Both of these are normal. If however, you feel nauseated, itchy, short of breath, or experience any discomfort, tell the technologist IMMEDIATELY. If you have had a reaction to contrast material before or if you have any allergies, tell your doctor and the technologist PRIOR to the exam.

At regular intervals, the technologist will ask you to hold your breath and images will be taken. These images will be shown to a radiologist who will then decide what, if any, additional images are needed. If no additional images are needed, then a final x-ray will be taken after you have been asked to empty your bladder in the bathroom or with a bedpan. Most of the contrast that was injected will be expelled during urination.

LENGTH: Approximately 1-1 1/2 hours The length of the exam is largely determined by the function of the urinary system.

If you are pregnant, or think you might be, tell your doctor and the technologist BEFORE your exam.