IVP
Home » Our Services »
An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an X-ray test that provides pictures of the kidneys, ureters and bladder.
During IVP, a dye called contrast material is injected into a vein in your arm. A series of X-ray pictures is then taken at timed intervals.
IVP is commonly done to identify diseases of the urinary tract, such as kidney stones, tumors, or infection.
Before having an IVP, tell your doctor if:
- You are or might be pregnant.
- You have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place.
- You are allergic to the iodine dye used as the contrast material that will be injected into a vein during this test.
- You have ever had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), such as after being stung by a bee or from eating shellfish.
- Within the past 4 days, you have had an X-ray test using barium contrast material (such as a barium enema) or have taken a medicine (such as Pepto-Bismol) that contains bismuth.
- You have had kidney problems in the past or have diabetes, especially if you take metformin (Glucophage) to control your diabetes. The contrast material used during an IVP can cause kidney damage in people who have poor kidney function. If you have had kidney problems in the past, blood tests (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) may be done before the test to make sure that your kidneys are working properly.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will mean.
INSTRUCTIONS: Get prep prescription from your provider. Do not eat or drink for 8 hours prior to your exam.
If you have any questions, please call our radiology department at 683-6406.