Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

An Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) is an x-ray exam of your urinary tract (kidneys, ureters and bladder). This test can help find stones or other problems with your urinary tract.

Preparation

• All medication should be taken as usual prior to your exam unless you are diabetic. All diabetic patients should consult their physician with regard to their diabetic medication prior to this exam.
• Starting at 12:00 noon on the day before your x-ray examination follow a clear liquid diet, unless otherwise directed by your physician. Clear liquids, such as fruit juices, clear soups, and non-carbonated beverages are satisfactory. Omit all milk and milk products. You may have plain jello. Do not drink coffee, tea, or sanka.
• At 4:00 pm the day prior to your exam take one package of Magnesium Citrate.
• If your appointment is in the morning, take nothing by mouth after midnight, except for a small amount of water as needed.
• If your appointment is in the afternoon, you may have a light clear liquid breakfast. Otherwise, take nothing by mouth, except a small amount of water as needed.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment with a prescription if your doctor has given you one.
• Blood work is within 3 months. Creatinine blood work may be required.

Procedure

• You will be given an intravenous (IV) injection of contrast (a liquid that improves x-ray images).
• You may be asked to empty your bladder before the final x-ray.
• The procedure itself takes about one hour. 

Considerations

• Due to the effect on the study do not plan on having this exam performed at the same time as any other GI procedures