Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)- About the Exam
An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an x-ray exam to evaluate the kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder with iodinated contrast material injected into veins.
After intravenous contrast material is injected into a vein in your arm, it travels through the blood stream and collects in the kidneys and urinary tract, which can then be imaged with x-ray images. Radiologists can use these images to evaluate the anatomy and function of the kidneys, ureters and the bladder.
An IVP exam helps radiologists assess abnormalities in the urinary system, as well as how quickly and efficiently your urinary tract can system is filter than intravenous contrast. IVP is used to help diagnose symptoms such as blood in the urine or pain in the side or lower back. The exam is also used to detect problems in the urinary tract caused by kidney stones, enlarged prostate, surgery on the urinary tract, congenital anomalies of the urinary tract and tumors in the kidney, ureters, or urinary bladder.
What you can expect during a IVP exam:
- You will be asked to lie flat on your back on the examination table.
- The contrast material is then injected, usually in a vein in your arm, and images are subsequently acquired. The number of images taken depends on the reason for the examination and your anatomy.
- You must hold very still and may be asked to keep from breathing for a few seconds while the x-ray picture is taken to reduce the possibility of a blurred image.
- The technologist will leave the room to activate the x-ray machine.
- As the contrast material is processed by the kidneys, a series of images is taken to determine the actual size of the kidneys and to capture the urinary tract in action as it begins to empty.
- The technologist may apply a compression band around the body to better visualize the urinary structures leading from the kidney.
- When the IVP exam is complete, you will be asked to wait until the radiologist determines that all the necessary images have been obtained.
- An IVP study is usually completed within an hour. However, because some kidneys function at a slower rate, the exam may last up to four hours.
Learn how to prepare for IVP.
Learn the benefits and risks of IVP.
Watch the X-ray - What to Expect Video.
