VOIDING CYSTO-URETHROGRAM

A voiding cysto-urethrogram (VCUG) is a fluoroscopy exam that is used to evaluate the size, shape and capacity of your bladder. It is also used to take images of the urethra, the small tube that connects the bladder with the outside of the body.

A VCUG procedure may be ordered to diagnose or rule out a condition where urine from the bladder goes upward back to the kidneys.

What should I expect?

You will lie on the X-ray table. A nurse will place a catheter into your bladder. You may feel some pressure or the sensation to urinate. The catheter will be connected to a bottle of contrast material, which will flow through the urinary catheter into the bladder.

Once the bladder is full, you will be asked to urinate while x-rays are taken.

The exam generally takes an average of 20 to 30 minutes.

Women who may possibly be pregnant should notify the technologist immediately.