Urography

Urography or sometimes known as an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a type of x-ray examination specifically designed to study the kidneys, bladder, and ureters.

After iodine-based contrast dye is injected into a vein, a series of images are taken at timed intervals. The kidneys are responsible for removing contrast dye from the blood and collecting it in urine.

The examination will find if there are abnormalities in the appearance of the kidneys or ureters, abnormalities in the distribution of contrast within a kidney, unequal amounts of dye in each kidney, or abnormalities in the collecting systems can be identified. These could suggest particular diseases and conditions.

As with other imaging tests, this one is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider’s office by an x-ray technician. You will need to urinate immediately prior the procedure to ensure the bladder is empty, and access to a vein will be placed in an arm.

Once the injection of contrast dye is complete, it is necessary to remain still during the procedure, which may take up to one hour. A compression device (a wide belt containing two balloons that can be inflated) may be used to keep the contrast material in the kidneys.

At the end of the procedure, you will again be asked to urinate for a final image, to see how well the bladder has emptied. Usual diet and medications should be started again after the exam, and drinking plenty of fluids is recommended, to ensure complete removal of the dye from the blood.

When do you need Urography?

The procedure helps evaluate infections in the bladder and the kidneys, blood in the urine, flank pain (which may be from kidney stones), and tumors. It is also useful for evaluating the urinary tract for damage after an abdominal injury.

An IVU is the most common kidney X-ray and is used to investigate a wide range of problems including:

• Pain in the kidneys
• Suspected kidney stones
• Blood in the urine
• Suspected obstruction
• Suspected congenital (inherited) abnormalities.

What are the Risks in Urography?

There is a chance of an allergic reaction to the dye, even if you have received prior injections of contrast with no problems.

There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits.

Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of radiation.

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