CT Intravenous Pyelogram Protocol
CT Intravenous Pyelogram (CT IVP or CT Urogram) is an exam that uses an injection of contrast material into the veins followed by Computed Tomography imaging to evaluate kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The exam helps to diagnose urinary tract disorders such as kidney stones, urinary tract obstruction, or cancer. Often symptoms for this procedure are, but not limited to, hematuria (blood in the urine), flank (back) pain and abnormal lab work.
When contrast material is injected into a vein in the patient’s arm, it travels through the bloodstream and collects in the kidneys and urinary tract, turning these areas bright white on the x-ray images. A CT IVP allows the radiologist to view and assess the anatomy and function of the kidneys, ureters and the bladder and is a valuable tool for diagnosis and treatment.
