Lyn: IVP

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

If you search the archives, you'll find accounts of IVPs, and they are not

bad.

I am delving into the incomplete FAQ to paste IVP information here for you.

Beth

SU resected x 2

Teddy 12/3/02

=========IVP=====================

10d. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)

What is an IVP?

An IVP is a special x-ray exam of your kidneys and other parts of your

urinary system. This includes your ureters (the tubes leading from the

kidneys) and your bladder. Another name for this test is " IV urogram. " If

you've had an x-ray for a broken bone, it is a little similar

How do I prepare for this exam?

Your physician will give you a set of instructions describing how you need

to prepare for this procedure. In order to see the kidneys well on X-ray, we

need to " clean out " the bowel. This involves drinking a fluid that will help

clear the bowel, as well as fasting the day of, and sometimes the evening

before your procedure

What else do I need to do to know?

If you have asthma or any allergies to foods or medications, be sure to tell

the people who are doing your exam. Also, be sure to tell them about any

reactions to x-ray dye you've had in the past. Tell them even if you think

the information is on your record, or you think they already know about it.

This is for your safety. You will be getting a dye for this test, and some

people who have allergies are also allergic to the dye.

If you have been scheduled for any other x-ray test on the same day as your

IVP, call the radiology department to make sure one test will not interfere

with the other.

What will happen during the test?

First, a technologist will take a " test " x-ray to see if your bowel is empty

enough for the test. If there is a lot of gas or bowel contents over the

kidneys, you may have to reschedule your test. If not, the technician will

start an IV (intravenous) line in your arm.

We will give you a special x-ray dye through the IV. This dye will outline

the kidneys and urinary system so we can see them on x-ray. This will show

the radiologist (the doctor who reads the x-rays) how well your kidneys are

working, and the structure of your urinary system.

After the injection, the technologist will take a number of x-rays. Each

time, you will be asked to hold your breath for a brief period. After the

radiologist has seen your bladder fill with dye, the technologist will ask

you to go to the bathroom to urinate. Then, they will look at your empty

bladder on x-ray.

How will it feel?

Some people experience a mild feeling of warmth, tingling or coolness at the

site the injection or at their tailbone. Others experience a " metal " taste.

And that's it-most people say the preparation is worse than the test itself.

How long will the exam take?

The exam takes about one hour. Occasionally, more time is necessary when we

need to take delayed films.

PLEASE NOTE!

If you experience nausea or breathing difficulties, please inform the

technologist immediately.

b