Intravenous Pyelogram

An Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) is an X-ray procedure that allows Dr Mkhize to examine your bladder, kidneys and the ureters that connect them. The purpose of an intravenous pyelogram is to check for any disorders affecting the urinary tract, including:

• Kidney stones
• Kidney cysts
• Bladder stones
• Urinary tract tumours
• Enlarged prostate
• Kidney disorders

Dr Mkhize may advise an IVP if you have been experiencing symptoms related to a urinary tract disorder, for example, blood in your urine or pain in your back or side.

Although not as commonly used today, IVPs are ideal procedures for detecting kidney structural issues and urinary tract blockages. However, you should avoid IVP if you experience any of the following:

• Have an iodine allergy
• Are pregnant
• Are an infant or child
• Have kidney disease

What to expect

Dr Mkhize will initially take X-rays of your urinary tract and kidneys before injecting an iodine contrast solution into a vein in your arm using an IV drip. The iodine solution then travels through your bloodstream to your ureters and kidneys.

Dr Mkhize will proceed to take X-rays at interval times and may request that you change position or turn onto your side while performing the X-rays. The dye is seen as bright white lines on the X-ray imaging and indicates if there is a blockage or if your kidneys are not functioning correctly.

Towards the end of the IVP examination, you will be asked to urinate, and more X-rays will be taken of your now empty bladder.

Once the procedure is complete, Dr Mkhize will have a radiologist examine and diagnose your X-rays and present the results to you in a follow-up appointment. Depending on the severity of your case, you may just require medication to treat the blockage or require surgery.