An Intravenous Pyelogram examination is designed to test the function and examine the anatomy of the kidneys, ureters and bladder. It is typically ordered for people who have known kidney stones or who are complaining of symptoms that are felt by their physicians to be suspicious for kidney stones (such as flank pain). Another common reason for ordering and performing this test is for the evaluation of hematuria (blood in urine).

The IVP imaging stidy requires the injection of a contrast agent. After the contrast is administered, a series of radiographs will be obtained and reviewed by the radiologist. The test usually takes about 1 hour to complete.

Before the injection you will be asked some specific questions about allergies and medications you may be taking. If you are diabetic you will be required to have a blood test to check your creatinine level before this test. Please have this blood test 2 days before the IVP exam so the results will be available.