Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

An IVP is most often done in a hospital or a doctor’s office. It is done by an x-ray technician with a doctor’s oversight.

You may be asked not to eat or drink anything by mouth, except water, for 24 hours before to the test. You’ll be asked to pass urine right before, to make sure your bladder is empty. Then you’ll be asked to lie on your back and remain still.

An x-ray, also called a "scout" film, will be taken of the abdomen and pelvis before the contrast agent is used. This helps to make sure that the x-ray machine is set for your size, and that there are no small stones present. The contrast agent is then injected into your vein. A series of x-rays are taken to see the contrast material filter through your kidneys. Once the agent has moved through the kidneys, it will pass down the ureters into the bladder. X-rays are taken throughout to follow the path of the contrast agent through the urinary tract. The x-rays will be reviewed for evidence of tumors, cysts, stones, or other structural and functional abnormalities.

At the end of the study, you’ll be asked to urinate so that a final set of images can show how well your bladder empties. Once the IVP is over, you can immediately resume your daily activities.

The main risk of an IVP test is a reaction to the dye. Such reactions are not common. Reactions occur in anywhere from 3 to 13 out of 100 people having an IVP. In general, reactions are minor, and consist of:

• Feeling flushed (a sudden, temporary reddening of the face, neck or chest)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache

These are often treated with antihistamines (drugs that reduce the histamines in your body from an allergic reaction).

Some people are more likely to react badly to the dye than others. If you have a history of allergic reactions, especially from iodine or shellfish, let your health care team know beforehand.

In these cases, you may be given antihistamines or steroids before the exam. This will reduce a reaction to the x-ray dye. Also, the use of a "non-ionic contrast agent" may have a lower risk of allergic reaction.

In addition, if you have kidney function problems where your kidneys may not work so well (as indicated by an elevation of a blood test called creatinine (Cr), they will likely choose not to give the IV dye.

In very rare cases, more severe reactions can occur. These can include:

• Breathing difficulties
• Low blood pressure
• Swelling of the mouth or throat
• Cardiac arrest

What is my risk for radiation exposure during Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)?

Radiation exposure from an IVP is relatively low. But if you’re pregnant (or think you may be pregnant), you should tell your health care provider before the test. This is because a fetus should not be exposed to any radiation, if possible.

Updated April 2024.