Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)
What is an Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)?
IVPs are basically x-rays of the urinary tract. Because the
kidneys, ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys with the bladder),
and the bladder blend in with other soft tissues in the abdomen, they
are not easily visible on regular x-rays. To see them better, dye
(contrast material) must be injected into a vein. After the dye is
excreted through the kidneys, excellent pictures of the various
components of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder can be obtained.
How should I prepare?
Appointments may be scheduled at our Puyallup Imaging Center of in the
Radiology Departments of any of our hospital locations. Please allow
1-1/2 hours for your examination.
Follow all instructions carefully to allow us to get the best possible examination:
For 24 hours prior to your examination, only consume clear liquids.
Examples of clear liquids are clear broth, apple, cranberry and grape
juice as well as Gatorade, plain Jell-O and popsicles.
Do not eat or drink anything for 6 hours before your appointment.
Also,
please make arrangements to keep your children at home on the day of
your appointment, there are no childcare services on site... and due to
the presence of radiation, children are not allowed to enter exam rooms
during imaging procedures.
What should I expect?
After you check in at the
reception desk and change into an appropriate exam gown, you will be
accompanied to a private x-ray room where you will be given further
instructions about the examination.
You
will be given an intravenous (IV) injection of contrast (a liquid that
improves x-ray images). Your technologist and Radiologist will be
introduced to you. A contrast medium ( a liquid substance) will be
injected into a vein in your arm. You may feel warm, flush and/or have
a metallic taste in your mouth. This will last a few minutes as the
solution moves through the blood stream. If you feel any discomfort or
sick sensation, let your Technologist or Radiologist know immediately.
You'll be asked to move from side to side and then hold still as x-rays are taken.
Pressure may be applied to your belly to help get the best images.
You may be asked to empty your bladder before the final x-ray.
You
may resume your regular diet after the exam, unless given other
instructions by your physician. The solution you were given by
injection will pass through your urine without coloration, just as
water is eliminated.
Results are usually available 3 working
days after the procedure. Please contact your referring physician for
results at that time.
Which location provides this service?
Puyallup Imaging Center
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