Intravenous Pyelogram

What is an intravenous pyelogram?

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a medical test that is done to look at your kidneys, ureters (thin tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder), and bladder. For an IVP, a contrast medium (also called dye) is put into your vein. Once the contrast dye reaches your organs, your provider will take x-ray images to look at these organs.

IVP can be used to diagnose some cancers and other health issues like:

• Kidney cancer.
• Bladder cancer.
• Cervical cancer.
• Urethral cancer.
• Enlarged prostate.
• Kidney stones.
• Urinary tract issues.

How do I prepare for an IVP?

Before having an IVP, tell your care team if you are allergic to iodine or if you had an allergic reaction to contrast in the past. You might be told to get blood tests to check your kidney function.

Your provider will tell you how to get ready for an IVP. This could include:

• Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before your test.
• Take a laxative the night before the test to empty your bowel.
• Metal can affect your test. Tell your care team about any metal that is inside you, like a port, joint replacement parts, and internal implants.
• You should wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to get on and off. You will change into a gown. You will be asked to take things off like a wig, dentures, hearing aids, bra, glasses, jewelry, and watch.

How is an IVP done?

• Once you are in your gown, you will lie down on an X-ray table.
• Often, a radiology technician does this test. The technician will help you get in the right position.
• The contrast dye will be put into one of your veins intravenously (IV) (a small flexible tube put into your vein).
• The technician will then take some X-rays. They may use a certain type of belt to help keep the dye in your kidneys so they can see them.
• If a belt is used, it is used for a short time and then removed so that the contrast can travel to your ureters and bladder, and more x-ray images can be taken.
• Then, you will be asked to urinate (pee), and X-rays will be taken of your bladder.

What are the risks of an IVP?

There are not many risks with this test.  An allergic reaction to the contrast dye is possible, so tell your provider if you have any known allergies. Let your care team know if you are pregnant, as the low dose of radiation given off by the X-ray can be harmful to an unborn child.

How do I get the results of my IVP?

A radiologist (a doctor who looks at different types of images) looks at the scan and makes a report. The report gives information about the findings. Your provider will talk with you about your results.

Your care team will tell you if an IVP is the right test for you. Ask your care team any questions you have about this test.