How Is an Intravenous Urography (IVU) Performed and What to Expect

Problems in the kidneys or urinary tract are quite common, affecting millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, several diagnostic procedures are available to detect and evaluate these conditions. Intravenous Urography (IVU) is one such procedure that has been used for decades to visualise the urinary system and identify abnormalities.

While the procedure is typically safe and straightforward, proper preparation and understanding of what one can expect can make the experience more comfortable.

This article explains how the IV Urography procedure is performed, what happens at each stage, and how to prepare for it.

What is Intravenous Urography (IVU)?

Intravenous Urography (IVU), also known as excretory urography, is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-ray radiation to visualise and evaluate problems within the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.

The procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into a vein, which then travels to the kidneys. As the dye is filtered and excreted from the urinary system, a series of X-ray images is taken to reveal the structure of the urinary organs.

Although CT intravenous urogram and MRI urography have largely replaced traditional IVU in modern practice, it is still occasionally used in certain clinical situations, especially when the CT or MRI scans are unavailable.

Why is Intravenous Urography Performed?

There are usually signs in the body, such as back or side pain or bloody urine, that indicate a problem in the urinary tract. An IV Urogram is performed to detect what that problem can be. It helps diagnose conditions like:

• Kidney stones.
• Tumours in the urinary tract.
• Structural problems in the kidneys and the urinary tract.
• Enlarged prostate.
• Blockage in the urinary tract that may be causing a urinary infection.

How to Prepare for the Procedure?

Before the procedure begins, there are certain things to keep in mind and be prepared for:

• Inform the healthcare provider about any allergies, especially to contrast dye (e.g., iodine), past severe reactions to X-rays, and any medications one is taking.
• Do not drink or eat anything for several hours before the procedure.
• A laxative may be prescribed the night before to clear the intestines and make the X-ray pictures clearer.
• All metal objects or jewellery must be removed before the procedure, as they might interfere with the X-ray pictures.
• Pregnant women are advised not to take the test as the radiation exposure may lead to some abnormalities in the baby.

How is an Intravenous Urography (IVU) Performed?

This is how an IV Urogram procedure is performed:

• The patient lies flatly on an X-ray table.
• An initial X-ray is taken to check the positioning and clarity of the urinary tract.
• A contrast dye is injected through the intravenous line in the arm.
• Multiple X-ray images are taken at specific intervals as the dye travels through the urinary system.
• The patient may be asked to change positions or hold their breath during imaging to get different views.
• The radiologist may apply gentle pressure on the abdomen to improve visualisation of certain structures.
• Near the end, the patient may be asked to empty their bladder, followed by a final X-ray to see how well the bladder empties.

Once the procedure is done, patients can typically resume their normal activities. Drinking plenty of fluids is also recommended to help flush out the contrast dye from the body. The results can be available within 1 or 2 weeks after the procedure.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Intravenous Urography?

During an Intravenous Urography, one gets exposed to X-ray radiation, which can be a cause of cancer. However, the amount of radiation is very small, so the risk of harm to the cells is low.

The procedure has generally no side effects. One may feel a flushing or warmth at the injection site, a metallic kind of taste in the mouth, nausea, or itching. But in some rare situations, complications can arise. These may include:

• Allergic reaction to the dye.
• A significant drop in blood pressure.
• Serious breathing difficulties.
• Cardiac arrest.
• Acute kidney injury.

Intravenous Urography is an important diagnostic procedure for evaluating urinary tract conditions. By understanding the process and preparing appropriately, one can have a smooth and comfortable experience while obtaining the critical diagnostic information their doctors need for accurate treatment.

For convenient booking of diagnostic imaging and laboratory tests, download the Dr Lal PathLabs app today.

FAQs

1. What should one expect after an IVP test?
   After an Intravenous Urography test, patients can typically resume normal activities immediately and should drink lots of fluids to flush out the dye from their system.
2. Is the Urogram X-ray test painful?
   The IVU test is generally not painful, though patients may experience a brief warm sensation or sting when the contrast dye is injected.