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Intravenous Pyelogram

An Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) is an X-ray examination of the kidneys, ureters (ducts that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) and urinary bladder. An IVP study uses a contrast medium made of iodine to enhance the images and allow the organs of the urinary tract to be differentiated from the surrounding tissues. The contrast material is injected into a vein in your arm and its progress through the urinary tract is then recorded on a series of X-rays.

The exam enables the radiologist to review the anatomy and the function of the kidneys and urinary tract. IVP examination is commonly ordered to investigate frequent urination, blood in the urine, or pain in the side or lower back. The IVP exam can enable the radiologist to detect kidney stones, enlarged prostate, tumors, cysts, and other bodily changes and problems.

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FAQ

How should I prepare? Expand

Preparation consists of 2 Dulcolax tablets.

The day before the exam, have a low residue diet for all meals (Do not eat raw fruits and vegetables, whole wheat bread, cereal, pork, beef, veal, fried or fatty foods, dairy products, rich desserts or nuts.) Take 2 Dulcolax tablets with water at 6:00 PM. Have nothing to eat or drink after midnight.

What should I expect? Expand

You will be asked to change into a gown and a detailed history will be taken. You will be positioned comfortably on your back, on an X-ray table. After the contrast medium is injected into your vein, you may feel a slight flush or notice a metallic taste in your mouth. Those sensations are normal and pass rapidly. The technologist will take X-rays quickly, in order to capture a clear image of the contrast as it moves through your urinary system. The exam will be monitored by the radiologist. Toward the end of the exam, you will be allowed to get up and empty your bladder in the rest room, after which one or two more X-rays will be taken.

Which locations offer IVP exams? Expand
  • Atrium Health Anson
  • Carolinas Medical Center
  • Atrium Health Lincoln
  • Atrium Health’s CMC-Mercy
  • Atrium Health Pineville
  • Atrium Health Union
  • Atrium Health University City
  • Davis Regional Medical Center
  • Morehead Imaging Center - CMC
  • Richmond Memorial Hospital
  • Scotland Memorial Hospital
  • Carolina Medical Center Northeast
  • Atrium Health Cabarrus Imaging
How do I make an appointment? Expand

Typically your referring physician will schedule an appointment for you. If you have been asked to schedule the appointment yourself, please have your physician's order and any pre-authorization information required by your insurance or health plan provider in hand, and call 704-512-2060.

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