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Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an X-ray examination of the
urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters and bladder.
In order to examine the urinary tract, a substance called
a contrast medium is injected into a vein.
X-rays normally pass through soft tissues of the body, such
as those in the urinary tract. However, the contrast medium
allows the urinary tract to be shown clearly on X-ray film.
This substance causes the urinary tract organs to cast a
shadow, which then is recorded on X-ray film for interpretation
by the radiologist.
Your doctor will notify you regarding fluid intake and diet
before the exam, which may include having a clear liquid
breakfast on the morning of the procedure. To help clean
the bowel, a laxative, suppository or enema may be recommended.
After removing your clothing and putting on a gown, you
will be asked to lie on an examination table, with the X-ray
equipment positioned above you. An X-ray may be taken before
you receive the contrast medium. After the contrast medium
is injected into a vein — usually in the arm — you
may feel a warm sensation or have a metallic taste in your
mouth. This is normal.
If you begin to itch, become short of breath or experience
other discomforts, inform the technologist, although these
side effect are very rare.
Periodically, you will be asked to turn from side to side
and then to remain completely still in various positions
while the X-rays are being taken.
The snapping and sliding sounds that you will hear as the
procedure is performed are from the film cassette moving
into place.
Near the end of the examination, you may be asked to empty
your bladder, and then another X-ray will be taken.
The examination usually takes less than one hour. You will
need to wait until the radiologist has examined the X-rays
to ensure that they are acceptable.
After the examination is interpreted by the radiologist,
a written report will be sent to your physician.
While a generally safe procedure, IVP does involve radiation.
Keeping that in mind, the benefits of having it performed
should outweigh any associated radiation risks.
, please contact the chief
technologist at 732-923- 6800 or the medical physicist
at 732-923-6811.
Click
here for the informational brochure (pdf),
available as a PDF (portable document format) file.
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