Why is this procedure done?
Voiding cystourethrogram is also called a VCUG. It is an x-ray that checks how much fluid your bladder will hold. It also looks for abnormalities in the bladder and urethra. This x-ray gives a picture of the urine as it moves from the bladder and out the urethra. This tells the doctors how well the bladder is able to empty. Your doctor may order this test to learn more about: � �
- Urinary tract infections, especially in children
- Trouble with emptying the bladder
- Problems from birth with the bladder or urethra
- Urethral narrowing in males
- Urine that flows back from the bladder to the kidneys
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What will the results be?
Your doctor will learn more about your bladder and urethra. This will help to make a plan for treatment. � �
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your health history and perform an exam.
- Talk to your doctor about all the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- You may be given a dye called "contrast " � for this procedure. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to dye or shellfish.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or you think you are pregnant.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will lie down on a table. Your doctor will take an x-ray of your pelvis.
- Your doctor will put a tiny rubber tube called a catheter into the bladder through the small opening where the urine comes out. The contrast dye will flow through the catheter into the bladder.
- X-ray images will be taken at various angles while the bladder is full of the contrast dye.
- Your doctor will remove the catheter so that you can pass urine. X-rays will be taken while you are passing urine and after you empty your bladder.
- The test takes 30 to 60 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- You can go home after the procedure. Ask your doctor when you can get the results.
- The dye will take 24 to 48 hours to leave the body.
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluids each day. This will to help flush out the dye.
What follow-up care is needed?
You will need to see your doctor to go over the results. The results will help your doctor understand what is wrong. You may need other tests and procedures. � �
What problems could happen?
- Allergic reaction to the dye used
- You may feel warmth or a flushing feeling
- Discomfort when you pass urine after the test due to irritation from the catheter
Where can I learn more?
American College of Radiology � �
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=voidcysto � �
American Urological Association � �
http://www.urologyhealth.org/urology/index.cfm?article=87 � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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Copyright � � 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. � �