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Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

Test Overview

An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an X-ray test, Opens dialog that provides pictures of the kidneys, the bladder, the ureters, Opens dialog, and the urethra, Opens dialog (urinary tract, Opens dialog). An IVP can show the size, shape, and position of the urinary tract, and it can evaluate the collecting system inside the kidneys.

During IVP, a dye called contrast material, Opens dialog is injected into a vein in your arm. A series of X-ray pictures is then taken at timed intervals.

IVP is commonly done to identify diseases of the urinary tract, such as kidney stones, Opens dialog, tumors, or infection. It is also used to look for problems with the structure of the urinary tract that were present from birth (congenital).

An ultrasound, Opens dialog or a computed tomography (CT) scan, Opens dialog may be combined with an IVP if more details about the urinary tract are needed. A computed tomography intravenous pyelogram (CT/IVP) is usually done to look for the cause of blood in the urine.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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