Intravenous pyelogram

Duration of examination

The examination will take between 30 – 60 minutes. Some kidneys empty at slower rates which may make the examination last up to 4 hours.

Please bring with you:

• Your request form
• Medicare and any
• Healthcare cards

Payment on the day of the examination is requested.

What is an intravenous pyelogram?

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an x‑ray examination of the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder). Iodine-based contrast media is injected intravenously. The contrast collects in the urinary tract, defining these areas by making them opaque on x‑rays. This allows the radiologist (specialist medical imaging doctor) to visualise the anatomy and function of the kidneys and urinary tract and assess abnormalities in the urinary system.

Patient preparation

A strong laxative must be taken the night before your appointment to reduce bowel material which may obscure clear imaging of your kidneys. You must have nothing to eat for two hours prior to the examination, but you may drink a little water.

What will happen during the examination?

You will be asked to change into a gown and lie on the examination table. IVP equipment is specialised and is not available at all of our rooms. Preliminary x‑rays of your urinary tract are then taken.

An injection of contrast will be given into a vein in your arm and the radiographer will begin taking x‑rays of your kidneys. Please try to remain very still during the examination. You will be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds reducing the possibility of blurred images.

As the contrast material is processed by the kidneys a series of images is taken to determine the actual size of the kidneys and to capture the urinary tract in action as it begins to empty. We may apply a compression band around your body to better visualize the urinary structures leading from the kidney.

During the imaging process, you may be asked to turn from side to side and hold several different positions to enable the radiographer to capture views from several angles.

Near the end of the examination, you will be asked to empty your bladder before an additional x‑ray is taken.

Are there any risks?

You will receive a small dose of x‑ray radiation. The benefits of detecting disease are believed to outweigh any potential risks from receiving such a small dose. However, please advise the radiographer if you are, or think you may be pregnant.

Problems related to the contrast injection are very rare. The injection will be discussed prior to the examination, and you will be asked to complete a questionnaire and to give your consent. Most people experience a temporary warming sensation when the contrast is administered. This will dissipate quickly. Please inform us if you are taking any diabetic medication, have kidney disease or have had a previous reaction to x‑ray contrast.

After the examination

At the completion of the IVP the needle will be removed. You should be able to resume your normal activities.

The images will be reviewed and reported by our radiologist. These will then be sent to your referring clinician. For details on reporting timeframes, please speak with our reception staff. It is important that you follow up the results of your examination with your referring clinician.