A retrograde pyelogram is an imaging test that uses X-rays to look at your bladder, ureters, and kidneys. The ureters are the long tubes that connect your kidneys to your bladder. This test is usually done during a test called cystoscopy. It uses an endoscope, which is a long, flexible, lighted tube. During a cystoscopy, the healthcare provider can inject contrast dye directly into the ureters. The contrast helps parts of the body
show up more clearly on an X-ray. The exam is done using anesthesia. You may need a retrograde pyelogram if your healthcare provider thinks something is blocking your kidneys or ureters. It is also used to find a possible causes of blood in your urine. This may be a tumor, stone, blood clot, or narrowing (strictures). The test is also used to check the placement of a catheter or a ureteral stent. A stent is a hollow tube that lets urine
pass around a blockage. This test can typically be done even if you are allergic to contrast dye. Only a small amount of the dye is absorbed by the body. The test may also be done if you have poor kidney function. Your healthcare provider may have other reasons to recommend a retrograde pyelogram. What are the risks of a retrograde pyelogram?You may want to ask your healthcare provider about the amount of radiation used during the test. Also ask about the risks as they apply to you. Consider writing down all X-rays you get, including past scans and X-rays for other health reasons. Show this list to your provider. The risks of radiation exposure may be tied to the number of X-rays you have and the X-ray treatments you have over time. Tell your healthcare provider if you:
Possible complications of retrograde pyelogram include:
You may not be able to have this test if you are severely dehydrated. You may have other risks depending on your specific health condition. Talk with your provider about any concerns you have before the procedure. Certain things can make a retrograde pyelogram less accurate. These include:
How do I get ready for a retrograde pyelogram?
What happens during a retrograde pyelogram?You may have a retrograde pyelogram as an outpatient or during a hospital stay. The way the test is done may vary depending on your condition and your healthcare provider's practices. Generally, the retrograde pyelogram follows this process:
What happens after a retrograde pyelogram?Your recovery will vary, depending on the type of procedure done and your healthcare provider’s practices. After the procedure, you'll be taken to the recovery room to be watched. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you'll be taken to your hospital room or sent home. Your urine output will be watched closely for volume and signs of blood. It may be red from even a small amount of blood. This is normal and doesn't necessarily mean a problem. You may be told to keep watching your urine output for a day or so once you're at home. You may have pain when you urinate. Take a pain reliever for soreness as recommended by your healthcare provider. Aspirin or certain other pain medicines may increase the chance of bleeding. Take only recommended medicine. Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these happen:
Your healthcare provider may give you other instructions, depending on your situation. Next stepsBefore you agree to the test or the procedure make sure you know:
What is the process of inserting a catheter called?The procedure to insert a catheter is called catheterization.
What is the procedure called where there is insertion of a tube through the urethra and into the urinary bladder for the purpose of withdrawing urine or inserting dye?During a cystoscopy, a cystoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. During a ureteroscopy, the urologist will focus on viewing the ureter and lining of the kidney, known as the renal pelvis.
What type of technique is used to insert a urinary catheter?Insertion of an indwelling urethral catheter (IDC) is an invasive procedure that should only be carried out using aseptic technique, Insertion of an indwelling urethral catheter (IDC) is an invasive procedure that should only be carried using aseptic technique, either by a nurse, or doctor if complications or ...
How is a catheter inserted into the bladder?Rather than being inserted through your urethra, the catheter is inserted through a hole in your tummy (abdomen) and then directly into your bladder. This procedure can be done under general anaesthetic, epidural anaesthetic or local anaesthetic.
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