Special Radiological Checkup In The Urinary System

IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram)

     Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) is a specialized radiological examination of the urinary tract used to diagnose abnormalities that may affect the system. This procedure involves the injection of a contrast agent into a vein to visualize the functioning of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, such as in the detection of kidney stones. Following the injection, X-ray images are taken at intervals as instructed by the physician.

Preparation for Radiological Examination

• Consume a light meal such as porridge or rice soup for dinner the day before the examination.
• In some cases, a laxative may be required the night before the examination.
• Refrain from consuming food or drink for at least 6 hours before the procedure.
• If the patient has a history of drug or seafood allergies, asthma, allergic conditions, heart disease, or any other chronic illnesses, please inform the medical staff.
• In cases where the patient has a history of drug or seafood allergies, asthma, or other allergic conditions, and the radiologist or attending physician deems the IVP necessary, pre-medication to prevent an allergic reaction to the contrast agent will be administered before the examination.

Pre-Examination Preparation for Referring Clinic Staff

Ensure the patient's kidney function test results (BUN, Creatinine, and GFR) are available before the date of the examination.

• For patients with normal kidney function: test results must be within the past 3 months.
• For patients with kidney-related conditions: test results must be within the past 7 days.

Procedure for Radiological Examination

• The patient or legal guardian will receive full information regarding the procedure from the medical staff and will be required to sign a consent form for the administration of the contrast agent provided by the hospital.
• The patient will be asked to change into hospital attire and remove all metallic accessories, which should be handed over to accompanying family members.

Radiological Examination Process

• The patient lies on the X-ray table in a supine position for the initial image, which checks for retained stool in the intestines. If excessive stool is found, it may interfere with the image interpretation and could require an enema or rescheduling.
• A physician or nurse will administer the contrast agent intravenously while closely monitoring the patient for any adverse reactions.
• If the patient experiences any discomfort or unusual symptoms during the procedure, they must inform the staff immediately.
• The radiologic technologist will take X-ray images at specific intervals following the injection, typically at 5, 10, and 30 minutes, or as advised by the physician. The patient will be instructed to retain urine until the bladder is full.
• Once the patient feels a strong urge to urinate, another X-ray image will be taken. Afterward, the patient may urinate.
• A final X-ray image will be taken post-urination, concluding the examination process.

Post-Examination Instructions

• The patient may resume a normal diet.
• The patient should drink plenty of water to facilitate the excretion of the contrast agent from the body through urine, minimizing the risk of retention or absorption.

Examination Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour

     The Radiology Department has in place all necessary safety measures and equipment to manage potential allergic reactions to contrast agents. All emergency equipment is maintained in a state of readiness to ensure patient safety at all times.