Intravenous Pylogram - IVP

PURPOSE OF THE TEST
Evaluates structure and function of the kidneys, ureters and bladder.

Where is test performed?

• McKinley Health Center radiology unit. (Could also be done in a hospital or outpatient clinic.)

Who performs test?

• Radiologist (physician) and radiographer

Risks and precautions

• If you have severe asthma, allergic reactions to iodine dye, or if you have diabetes and are taking a Glucophage-type drug.

Patient Preparation

• You will be given an instruction sheet prior to your procedure. Please review carefully.
• Activity - No changes necessary. You will be sent to the radiology unit for further instructions.
• Diet - Low residue diet 24 hours before the test.
• Medicines - Take a prescribed laxative the night before the test to remove intestinal gas and feces that could block the X-ray view.
• Fast for twelve hours prior to the test.

THE TEST
Description of test

• You will be required to sign a consent form after the procedure has been explained. If you have any questions, consult with the physician who ordered the test.
• Maintain the position the radiographer requests.
• Dye (radiopaque contrast agent) is injected into the arm.
• You may feel a brief burning sensation and metallic taste when the dye is injected. Report any other sensations you experience.
• X-ray films are taken at various intervals after dye is injected.
• You will be asked to wait a short while until films are developed.

AFTER THE TEST
Immediate post-test care

• Apply pressure to the puncture site with bandage provided by the radiology unit.
• Some discoloration, soreness or swelling may develop at the venipuncture site. This responds well to moist, warm compresses applied every 2-4 hours.

Activity after test

• Resume normal diet
• Return to pre-test activities

Time before test results available

• It usually takes three working days for results to be reported to the doctor. This may be sooner in emergency situations. Your provider will give you the results of your test.

TEST RESULTS
Test values

• Test results are determined by a study of the X-rays, which reveal fine details of the structure and function of the urinary tract.

Normal values

• No anatomical or functional abnormalities

What "abnormal" may indicate

• Abnormal size, shape or structure of kidney, ureters or bladder
• Absent kidney
• Hydronephrosis (distention of renal pelvis with urine)
• Kidney stones
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Pyelonephritis (inflammation of the kidney)
• Renal or ureteral calculi
• Renal tuberculosis
• Renovascular hypertension
• Tumors

Taking these drugs may affect test results

• Glucophage-type drugs

Factors that may affect test results

• Kidney disease in its final stage.
• Feces or gas in the colon.
• Insufficient injection of dye.
• A recent barium enema.
• Recent gastrointestinal or gallbladder tests.
• Failure to fast for 12 hours.

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