An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an X-ray examination used to evaluate the kidneys, ureters, and urinary bladder. During the test, a contrast material is injected into the arm and travels through the blood stream, collecting in the kidneys and urinary tract.

An IVP allows the radiologist to view and assess the anatomy and function of the kidneys and lower urinary tract.

The exam is used to help diagnose symptoms such as blood in the urine or pain in the patient’s lower back or mid-section.

The test is able to detect problems within the urinary tract resulting from kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or tumors in the kidney, ureters or urinary bladder.

The night before the exam, your patient will be instructed to avoid food or drink and will be asked to take a mild laxative (in either pill or liquid form).

Precautions

Women who may possibly be pregnant should notify the technologist immediately.
 
The patient should inform the technologist of all medications they are currently taking and any allergies they have have, especially to contrast materials.

The patient should also inform the technologist of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions including a history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, or kidney disease.