 |
|
|
|
An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an x-ray of the urinary tract, which
includes the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. A special dye (or contrast)
is given intravenously to outline these structures, making it possible
to make permanent x-ray images of these organs.
Tell your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to iodine or
x-ray contrast. If you are allergic, medication will be prescribed
for you to take prior to the testing.
If you have a history of kidney problems or diabetes, blood tests
(creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) will be done before the IVP to check
that your kidneys are functioning properly. The intravenous contrast
material used during an IVP can cause kidney damage in people with
poor kidney function.
Tell the technologist if you are on Glucophage for diabetes control.
Tell your doctor if you are, or suspect you might be pregnant.
You should not eat or drink anything after midnight prior to the examination.
Some patients will be given a "prep kit" to take the day
before their exam. This kit contains diet instructions and laxatives.
Please follow these instructions carefully.
After changing into a gown, you will be asked to lie on an x-ray table
in the examination room. A registered technologist will explain the
procedure and some preliminary x-rays of your abdomen will be taken.
A radiologist will review your medical history and then tailor the
IVP specifically for your medical problems. After the radiologist
reviews the preliminary films, the technologist will return and inject
the x-ray contrast into a vein in your arm. You may feel a warm flush
or have a metallic taste in your mouth while the contrast is being
injected. This is normal.
After the dye is injected, x-rays will be taken at timed intervals
to check the flow of the contrast through your kidneys, ureters, and
bladder. You will be asked to turn from side to side and to hold your
breath at certain times while the x-rays are being taken. Pressure
may be applied to your abdomen for a short time to keep the contrast
in your kidneys. Near the end of the exam, you may be asked to empty
your bladder so that an additional film can be taken. The procedure
takes approximately one hour.
You may resume your normal activities, diet, and medications unless
instructed otherwise by your doctor. Your body will eliminate the
contrast in your urine, which will show no discoloration.
Your examination will be reviewed by the radiologist after the exam has been completed. If you choose OnSite Results, your preliminary results will be given to you before you leave our office. Your physician will be sent a detailed final report by fax or mail.
|
|
|
|
|
|
