HomeLab TestsIntravenous Pyelogram (IVP)
Back to Lab Tests
Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an x-ray exam that uses contrast dye to visualize the urinary tract, including the kidneys, bladder, and ureters.

What is an intravenous pyelogram (IVP)?

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) uses x-rays to take pictures of the urinary tract, which consists of the kidneys (which filter blood), the bladder (which stores urine), and the ureters (tubes that carry urine to the bladder). In males, the test can also visualize the prostate.

During the procedure, contrast dye is injected into a vein. As the kidneys filter the dye, it collects in the urinary tract, making the organs appear bright white on x-ray images. While CT scans have largely replaced IVP in modern practice, IVP remains useful in specific clinical situations.

What is it used for?

An IVP helps diagnose urinary tract or prostate disorders, including:

  • Kidney, bladder, or ureter stones.
  • Kidney cysts or tumors.
  • Enlarged prostate (BPH).
  • Birth defects affecting the urinary tract structure.
  • Scarring from urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Why do I need an IVP?

You may need an IVP if you experience symptoms such as:

  • Pain in the side, back, abdomen, or groin.
  • Blood in the urine or cloudy/bad-smelling urine.
  • Painful or frequent urination, or inability to urinate.
  • Nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, or swelling in the legs.

What happens during an IVP?

The procedure generally takes about an hour and involves the following:

  • You will lie on an x-ray table, and a technician will inject contrast dye through an IV line.
  • Several x-rays are taken as the kidneys filter the dye.
  • A special belt may be wrapped around your belly to keep the dye in the kidneys temporarily.
  • After the belt is removed, more x-rays are taken to track the dye as it moves through the ureters into the bladder.
  • You will be asked to urinate, and a final x-ray will be taken to see how well the bladder empties.

Risks and Preparation

You will likely need to fast after midnight before the test and may be asked to take a mild laxative. There is a small risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye; inform your provider if you have allergies, congestive heart failure, or diabetes. You may feel itchy, warm, or experience a metallic taste during the injection, which is normal. Because IVP involves radiation, it is generally not used during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should drink plenty of water the day before to keep your kidneys hydrated. Avoid eating or drinking for 4–6 hours before the test if instructed, and inform your provider about any medications you are taking, especially blood thinners or diabetes drugs. If you have kidney disease, your doctor may adjust the contrast dose or recommend a different imaging study.
The images show the size, location, and effect of stones, tumors, or structural abnormalities. Based on the findings, your doctor may recommend medication, a minimally invasive procedure, or surgery, and will discuss the best next steps with you.
The test takes about an hour. You will lie on an X‑ray table while a technician inserts a small IV line. Contrast dye is slowly injected, and a series of X‑ray images are taken as the dye travels through the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and sometimes the prostate. A special belt may be used briefly to keep the dye in the kidneys before it is released.
Most people tolerate the dye well, but some may experience a mild flushing sensation, nausea, or a brief feeling of warmth. Rarely, allergic reactions can occur, especially in those with a history of contrast allergies or kidney problems. Your doctor will review your kidney function and allergy history before the test.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss