An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a test that uses x-rays to look at the structure and function of the kidneys, the bladder, and the tubes known as ureters that connect the kidneys to the bladder.
Reasons for having an intravenous pyelogram include: infectionblood in the urinepain in the mid or lower backpain in the abdomeninjury to the kidneyssuspicion of cancermass in the abdomenhigh blood pressurediabetes postoperative follow-up
Before having the test, the individual needs to undress completely and put on an exam gown. He or she will lie on the x-ray table facing up. The technologist will take a "scout" film, which is an x-ray taken to identify exactly where the kidneys and bladder are located.
A large dose of contrast material, a dye usually containing iodine, is injected into a vein in the arm. Six or seven more x-rays are usually taken, in a particular order depending on the problem being investigated. Sometimes an additional imaging technique may be used that views the kidney in slices like bread, which is called a kidney tomogram.
Toward the end of the session, the person empties his or her bladder. A final picture is taken is taken after urination. When the test is performed on children or pregnant women fewer films are taken, in order to minimize radiation exposure. The technologist will look at the pictures. If they are satisfactory, the person is free to leave.
The night before the test, the person will be asked to take 8 ounces of citrate of magnesia. This helps empty the bowel so that the urinary structures will show up better on the x-ray. The individual should not eat within 4 hours or drink within 2 hours of the exam.
Upon reaching the hospital, the person will need to remove all jewelry and metal objects. Individuals are required to sign a consent form that asks about pregnancy and allergies, especially to iodine.
Right before the test, the person will empty his or her bladder. Preparation may vary slightly from place to place, so an individual should check with the healthcare professionals for specific instructions.
The x-ray pictures can show: kidney stonesabnormal calcifications, a hardening of tissue because of calcium depositsblockages of the ureterstumors, either cancerous or non-cancerousinjuriesbladder abnormalitiesabnormalities of kidneys that are the source of high blood pressurestructural abnormalities that have been present from birthan enlarged prostate in a manchanges in urinary system anatomy from previous surgery
Together with the medical history, physical exam, and laboratory results, the IVP helps the healthcare professional decide whether the problem(s) can be managed with medication, or if surgery is needed.
