What is Intravenous Pyelogram

Intravenous pyelogram is a kind of X-ray. It is done to check for problems in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.

What happens before the procedure?

• Follow instructions from your doctor about what you cannot eat or drink.
• Ask your doctor about changing or stopping your normal medicines. This is important if you take diabetes medicines or blood thinners.

What happens during the procedure?

• You will put on a hospital gown.
• You will lie down on an exam table.
• An IV tube will be inserted into one of your veins.
• A dye will be put into the IV tube. The dye helps your doctor to see your kidneys, ureters, and bladder better on X-rays. When the dye goes in, you may feel warm or have a strange taste in your mouth. The feeling or the taste will go away in a short time.
• A doctor may press on your belly (abdomen).
• You may be asked to move.
• You may be asked to pee (urinate) before the last X-ray.

The procedure may vary among doctors and hospitals.

What happens after the procedure?

• You can drive home safely.
• You can go back to your normal activities.

Intravenous Pyelogram, Care After

These instructions give you information about caring for yourself after your procedure. Your doctor may also give you more specific instructions. Call your doctor if you have any problems or questions after your procedure.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Return to your normal activities as told by your doctor. Ask your doctor what activities are safe for you.
• Drink enough fluid to keep your pee (urine) clear or pale yellow.
• It is your responsibility to get the results of your procedure. Ask your doctor when your results will be ready.

Contact a doctor if:

You start peeing less than you usually do.

Get help right away if:

• You feel sick to your stomach (are nauseous).
• You throw up (vomit).
• You have itching.
• You have trouble breathing.
• Your throat swells.
• You have chest pain.
• You have chills or a fever.