Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an x-ray that provides pictures of the urinary tract, which consists of the kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra. It is commonly used to diagnose certain diseases of the urinary tract (such as kidney stones, tumors or infection), to detect abnormalities that were present since birth, or to detect damage to the urinary tract after an injury.

• You are allergic to x-ray dye or contrast.
• You are pregnant.
• You are currently taking medication containing metformin for your diabetes.

Before your IVP, your colon must be empty to provide a clear view of your kidneys. Your doctor will order a bowel preparation for you to use starting the day before your exam. The instructions for its use will be provided. Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before the IVP. You may continue to take your medications with a sip of water. If you are diabetic, please discuss with your doctor the use of your diabetic medications. 

During the IVP, x-ray dye is injected into a vein in your arm. A series of pictures is taken at timed intervals. Light compression may be applied with a belt to better visualize the kidneys. A final x-ray will be taken after you empty your bladder. The exam takes about an hour.

Proper kidney function is necessary for the x-ray dye to be flushed from the body. The doctor may order a blood test to determine adequate kidney function before the exam.

After your exam, you may resume your regular diet. It is important to drink plenty of fluids after your exam (if you are not on a fluid restriction) to flush the dye through your system. 

After your exam is read by a radiologist, your doctor will receive a report of the findings and will discuss them with you. 

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your doctor or contact Imaging Services at (320) 255-5619.

Your appointment is on:

Date: ________________ Time: ________________ at the following location:

____ St. Cloud Hospital - please check in at Door A

____ CentraCare Health Plaza - please check in at Woodlands Entrance