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Ency. home > Test > V > Voiding cystourethrogram

Voiding cystourethrogram    See images

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

Cystourethrogram - voiding

Definition:

This is an X-ray examination of the bladder and the urethra (the tube that leads from the bladder to the outside). 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.

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light). They are of higher energy, however, and can 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.

How the Test is Performed

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an X-ray technician. You will be asked to 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 films 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

Inform the health care provider if you are:

  • Pregnant
  • Allergic to X-ray contrast material
  • Allergic to any medications
You must sign a consent form. You will be given a gown to wear. Remove all jewelry.

Children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

How the Test will Feel

There is some discomfort with the catheter and the full bladder.

Why the Test is Performed

This test is performed to detect abnormalities of the bladder and the urethra (tube that leads from the bladder to the outside). The test may also detect abnormal bladder emptying, congenital anomaly (abnormality); and in males, it may detect urethral stricture and extent of narrowing in the prostatic urethra.

Ency. home > Test > V > Voiding cystourethrogram

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