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Intravenous Pyelogram

(IVP; Excretory Urography; Intravenous Urography [IVU])

Definition

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a test that evaluates problems in the urinary tract. It is done with contrast dye and x-rays.
The Male Urinary System
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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

Prior to test

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.

Description of the Test

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.

After Test

You will be able to resume your normal activities and diet. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.

How Long Will It Take?

About 60-90 minutes

Will It Hurt?

No. You may feel a sensation of warmth or heat as the contrast dye travels through your body.

Results

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.

RESOURCES

American Urological Association http://www.urologyhealth.org

National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov

CANADIAN RESOURCES

Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index-eng.php

Kidney Foundation of Canada Northern Alberta http://www.kidney.ca

References

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.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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