Where are we?
IVU's are performed in the X-ray Department on level 3, St Peters Hospital and the Main X-ray Department on the Ground floor at Ashford hospital.
What are IVU's?
An IVU is an investigation which involves injecting a contrast media into the body via a vein (usually in your arm) so that the kidneys and urinary system can be visualised. A series of x-rays are taken to show the progress of the contrast through the urinary tract.
How long will the examination take?
You should expect to be in the department for about an hour, although sometimes the contrast takes a long time to travel through the urinary system and the examination may take up to a couple of hours.
Do I need to prepare for the examination?
Yes. You will receive a letter prior to your appointment which will tell you not to drink any fluids six hours prior to the examination. If you are diabetic and take the drug metformin, you should let the department know prior to the examination so that we can let you know when to cease and commence taking your medication.
Are there any risks?
There is a very small risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast media you will be given. Most people get a warm feeling as the contrast is injected; it is very rare to have a severe reaction to the contrast. The incidence of mild adverse drug reactions is 2.5%. Most of these reactions are mild and require no treatment. If you have any allergies, or have had previous allergic reactions to the contrast, you should let the radiographer know.
What do I do after the examination?
You can return to eating and drinking as normal and the contrast will pass harmlessly through your system without you noticing it. You will need to make an appointment to see your GP who will receive the results from the department usually within 5 - 7 days. If you have been referred by you r consultant you will be informed of the results at your next out-patient appointment.
The Procedure
When it is time for your appointment, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. We encourage you to bring a dressing gown as well. You will then have a plain x-ray of your urinary tract before your injection. At this point the contrast media will be injected and a series of x-ray's taken which will track the progress of the contrast through your urinary system. Before your final x-ray you will be asked to empty your bladder.
Contact Information
Please contact us if you are pregnant or breast feeding. IVU (Intravenous Urogram) Tel 01932 722501
Information Leaflet
Intravenous Urography
Your doctor has referred you to the x-ray department for an IVU examination (intravenous urogram.) This is sometimes also called an IVP. It is a special x-ray examination to outline the urinary tract which includes the kidneys, ureters and bladder. The examination will take approximately 1 hour.
On arrival in the x-ray department, please report to the reception desk ... read more
