Overview  |  Bone Densitometry  |  CT  |  IVP  |  Mammography  |  Ultrasound Exams (Sonograms)  |  Maps & Directions

What is an IVP?
An intravenous pyelogram is a special X-ray 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:
A low residue diet should be followed the day prior to the exam. A laxative should be taken the evening before such as Magnesium Citrate (10 ounce). These over-the-counter laxatives are available at your local drug store. The morning of the IVP you may have coffee or fruit juice.

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 physician, 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 into a vein in your arm. Once the dye is 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 procedure.

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

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
You should be able to return to a normal diet and activities immediately following the procedure. The contrast agent is naturally eliminated from your system and should not discolor stools or urine.

Finding out the Results
Your exam will be interpreted by the radiologist, and the results will be phoned, faxed or mailed to your physician promptly. He/she will then discuss the results with you.

Why Does My Physician 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