Definition |
Reasons for Test |
Possible Complications |
What to Expect |
Call Your Doctor
Definition
An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a test that evaluates problems in the urinary tract. It is done with contrast dye and
x-rays.
Reasons for Test
An IVP is done to identify:
- The cause of blood in urine
- Tumors
- Kidney stones
or bladder stones
-
Damage to the urinary tract from injury or
infection
- Other problems keeping the kidney or bladder from functioning normally
Possible Complications
Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have an IVP, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
- Allergy to contrast dye (iodine)
- Blood disorders
- Poor kidney function
- Taking certain medicines
Pregnant women should not have this test.
What to Expect
Leading up to the test:
- You will need to have kidney function tests.
-
The day before the test, you may be asked to use laxatives and possibly
enemas
to clean out your gut. This is because stool in the intestines may make it harder to read the x-ray pictures.
- Do not eat or drink after midnight.
An IV line will be inserted. This will provide the contrast dye and any medicine that you will need. For the next 30-60 minutes, you will lie on a table while x-rays are taken at regular intervals. You may be asked to hold your breath each time an x-ray is taken. The dye will highlight your urinary system on the x-ray. This will allow your doctor to see these body parts at work and detect problems. Before the last x-ray, you will empty your bladder in a bathroom.
You will be able to resume your normal activities and diet. Be sure to follow your doctor's
instructions.
No. You may feel a sensation of warmth or heat as the contrast dye travels through your body.
It may take a few days to receive your test results. Your doctor will discuss the results with you, as well as any treatment.
Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if you have any concerns after the procedure. Call if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Itching or skin rash
- Shortness of breath
In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.
Guide to diagnostic tests. Harvard Health Publications website. Available at:
http://www.health.harvard.edu/diagnostic-tests/intravenous-pyelogram.htm. Accessed October 20, 2009.
Intravenous pyelogram. Radiology Info website. Available at:
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=ivp. Updated June 2009. Accessed October 20, 2009.
Last reviewed September 2012 by Adrienne Carmack, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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