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Alternative names Return to top
Cystourethrogram - voidingDefinition Return to top
A voiding cystourethrogram is a type of X-ray taken to image the bladder and urethra during urination.
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy, so they 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
Usually the urinary bladder is not well seen on conventional X-rays. In this examination, 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.
How the test is performed Return to top
The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in a 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 pictures 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 Return to top
You must sign a consent form. You will be given a gown to wear.
Remove all jewelry before the test. Inform the health care provider if you are:
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 Return to top
You may feel some discomfort when the catheter is placed and while your bladder is full.Why the test is performed Return to top
This test is performed to detect abnormalities of the bladder and the urethra. The test may also detect abnormal bladder emptying or any congenital abnormality. In males, it may detect urethral stricture and the extent of narrowing in the prostatic urethra.
Normal Values Return to top
The bladder and urethra will be normal in size and function.What abnormal results mean Return to top
Abnormal results may indicate the following:
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
What the risks are Return to top
You may experience some discomfort when urinating after this test because of irritation from the catheter.
You may experience bladder spasms after this test, which may indicate an allergic reaction to the contrast medium. Contact your health care provider if bothersome bladder spasms occur.
Update Date: 1/14/2003 Updated by: Benjamin Taragin, M.D., Department of Radiology, Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |