RX kidneys and urinary tract (Intra Venous Pyelography)
In an RX examination, we take images of parts of the body based on X-rays. By inserting contrast fluid into the kidneys and urinary tract, we get a better image. This examination mainly serves to detect kidney and urinary stones or runoff, or to evaluate kidney function and detect infections.
Plan your appointment
Course of the examination
An RX kidneys and urinary tract takes about 1 hour.
- The nurse will escort you from the waiting room to the examination room. He/she will tell you what clothes or jewelry you need to take off for the examination.
- You take your place on the x-ray table.
- The nurse places an IV through which the contrast fluid is administered. The insertion of the contrast fluid may cause a slight sensation of heat. This is normal and this heat sensation disappears again after a few seconds.
- Next we take images at certain time intervals. We will visualize the staining of the kidneys, kidney staining and the discharge of the bladder (left and right) in this way. We will also take a recording before and after discharging the bladder.
- The RX tube passes centrally over the part of the body to be examined by means of a light visor. If necessary, the RX table can be moved.
- It is essential to follow the guidelines carefully when you are asked not to move or hold your breath during imaging. Moving or breathing during the examination usually causes an illegible image.
The radiologist who performed the examination makes an initial interpretation of the images during the examination. After the final interpretation, the radiologist sends a report to the doctor who requested the examination. Only this doctor can discuss the results with you.
This examination is only possible by appointment. Please always bring your identity card, your doctor's prescription and any previous radiological examinations with you.
Preparation
- The day before the examination you will be given low-residue food and a laxative (Prepacol), prescribed by the doctor.
- The day of the examination you must be sober for four hours before the examination, during which time you may not eat or drink anything.
- You may also be given a lavement on the day of the examination to reduce any disturbing intestinal gases.
- Allergies to food or contrast fluid must be reported beforehand. This also applies to asthma. You will also be asked about this in advance.
To remove the contrast fluid as quickly as possible, we recommend that you drink enough after the examination, this only if medically justified.