Medical Condition Library

Information Centers

Wellness Centers

Helpful Resources

Intravenous Pyelogram

(IVP; Excretory Urography; Intravenous Urography [IVU])

by Editorial Staff and Contributors

Definition

Reasons for Test

Possible Complications

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

En Español

Definition

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a test that evaluates problems in the urinary tract. It is done with an injection of material that is seen in the urine on x-rays.

Normal Anatomy of the Kidney

Reasons for Test TOP

An IVP is done to identify:

The cause of blood in urine
Tumors
Kidney stones or bladder stones
Damage to the urinary tract from injury or infection
Other problems keeping the kidney or bladder from functioning normally

Possible Complications TOP

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems like:

Allergic reaction to iodine or shellfish
Kidney failure

Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

Allergy to the iodine contrast material
Blood disorders
Poor kidney function
Certain medications

Pregnant women should not have this test.

What to Expect TOP

Prior to test

Leading up to the test:

You will need to have kidney function tests.
The day before the test, you may be asked to use laxatives and enemas to empty your digestive system. This is because stool in the intestines may make it harder to read the x-rays.
Do not eat or drink after midnight.

Description of the Test

An IV will be inserted. This will provide the contrast material and any medication that you will need. For the next 30-60 minutes, you will lie on a table while x-rays are taken at regular intervals. You may be asked to hold your breath each time an x-ray is taken. The material will highlight your urinary system on the x-ray. This will allow your doctor to see these body parts at work and detect problems. Before the last x-ray, you will empty your bladder in a bathroom.

After Test TOP

You will be able to resume your normal activities and diet.

How Long Will It Take? TOP

About 60-90 minutes

Will It Hurt? TOP

No, but you may feel a sensation of warmth or heat as the contrast material travels through your body.

Results TOP

It may take a few days to receive your test results. Your doctor will discuss the results with you, as well as any recommended treatment.

Call Your Doctor TOP

It is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

Nausea and/or vomiting
Itching or skin rash
Shortness of breath

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

RESOURCES:

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
https://www.niddk.nih.gov

Urology Care Foundation
http://www.urologyhealth.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca

Kidney Foundation of Canada
https://www.kidney.ca

References:

Intravenous pyelogram (IVP). Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Updated February 3, 2017. Accessed September 7, 2017.

Last reviewed September 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrienne Carmack, MD
Last Updated: 8/31/2015

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.