Voiding cystourethrogram

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Voiding cystourethrogram

Definition:

A voiding cystourethrogram is an x-ray image of the bladder and urethra during urination.

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy, so they penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray

Usually, the urinary bladder does not show up well on conventional x-rays. In this examination, a contrast medium is introduced into the bladder to improve visualization.

X-ray images are taken in various positions with the bladder full of contrast and while the bladder is being emptied.

Alternative Names:

Cystourethrogram - voiding

How the test is performed:

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in a health care provider's office by an x-ray technician.

You will lie on your back on the x-ray table. A catheter (a thin, flexible tube) will be gently inserted into the urethra and passed into the bladder. The contrast medium is injected through the catheter into the bladder and the catheter is clamped.

A number of x-ray pictures are then taken in various positions. The catheter is removed so that you can urinate (void). X-rays are taken of the bladder and urethra during voiding.

How to prepare for the test:

You must sign a consent form. You will be given a gown to wear.

Remove all jewelry before the test. Inform the health care provider if you are:

Pregnant
Allergic to x-ray contrast material
Allergic to any medications

How the test will feel:

You may feel some discomfort when the catheter is placed and while your bladder is full.

Why the test is performed:

This test is performed to detect abnormalities of the bladder and the urethra. The test may also detect abnormal bladder emptying or any congenital abnormality. In males, it may detect urethral stricture and the extent of narrowing in the prostatic urethra.

Review Date: 11/3/2004
Reviewed By: Jeffrey J. Brown, MD FACR, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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