Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) 20 Minute Function

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.

We Will Be Using X-ray Dye for the Exam. Please Notify Your Doctor if:

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

Before Your Procedure

  • 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 Your Procedure

  • X-ray dye is injected into a vein in your arm.
  • A picture will be taken minutes after the injection. It will be shown to the radiologist to determine if any extra images are needed.
  • 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 that your kidneys are functioning properly before the exam.

After Your Procedure

  • You may resume your regular diet.
  • It is important for you to drink plenty of fluids after your exam (if you are not on a fluid restriction) to flush the dye through your system.
  • Your doctor will be contacted with the results of your test and will discuss the results 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 provider.

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