Why an Intravenous Urogram (IVU)?
The IVU demonstrates the "renal tract". The renal tract is made up of the kidneys, the ureters which are the tubes between the kidneys and bladder, and the bladder.
Preparing for the test
You will not be able to eat or drink for three hours prior to this test.
The test usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
Female patients - please let us know prior to this test if you are, or think you may be pregnant.
There is a consent form for this examination outlining the preparation, procedure, possible complications and aftercare. You will be asked to read through this, asked questions to ensure you are happy to continue with the procedure and lastly to sign the consent form.
Who does the test?
A Radiologist (Doctor specialising in medical imaging) and a Medical Imaging Technologist will be in the room with you during this test.
The procedure
The examination begins with an abdomen x-ray. A small needle will then be put into a vein in your arm. The radiology dye (contrast media) will be administered through the needle. The contrast is filtered from the blood stream by the kidneys and shows up on the x-ray images.
Shortly after the injection, some people report feeling a warm body flush, and sometimes have a metallic taste in their mouth. These usually disappear within a minute or two, and are no cause for alarm.
Should you become itchy or short of breath, let the Radiologist know straight away, as you may have a slight reaction to the contrast and need to have some antihistamine.
After this injection, a series of images will be taken over the next 30 minutes as the dye passes through your renal tract.
A tight band may be placed on your lower abdomen. This helps to obtain maximum filling of the contrast media in the kidneys.
At the end of the examination, you will be asked to empty your bladder and another image taken to see the empty bladder.
At the completion of the examination
After the Radiologist has seen your X-rays and the test is completed, you may go home.
You can eat and drink normally. The contrast media is passed out of the body very quickly, and you will not notice it in your urine.
You will receive an aftercare sheet outlining the examination you have had performed and the medications administered.
After the examination
The Radiologist will review the images and provide a written report to your referring doctor.
Please settle your account on the day of the examination.
Please contact Hamilton Radiology for an appointment on 07-8394909 or 0800 HAMRAD (0800426723)