Voiding cystourethrogram

A voiding cystourethrogram (say "sis-toh-you-REE-throh-gram") is a test that is done to see if there are problems with the urinary system. The test uses contrast fluid and X-rays so the doctor can see the size of the bladder and how the bladder fills and drains.

This test is done to:

• Find the cause of urinary problems. These include repeated urinary tract infections and not being able to control when you urinate (urinary incontinence).
• Check for vesicoureteral reflux, which means urine backs up toward the kidneys from the bladder instead of going through the urethra and out of the body.
• Check for structural problems of the bladder and urethra.
• Follow up on other problems found during a different test such as a CT scan of the urinary system.

• The nurse will ask you to take off all or most of your clothes. Then you will cover yourself with a cloth or paper covering.
• You will urinate just before the test starts.
• You will lie on your back on an X-ray table, and a standard X-ray will be taken of your belly and pelvic area.
• Your genital area will be cleaned and covered with towels. A flexible, thin tube will be inserted through your urethra into your bladder. This tube is called a catheter.
• The doctor will put a liquid into your bladder through the catheter. This liquid is called contrast material. It shows up well on X-ray pictures.
• X-rays will be taken while your bladder is filled with liquid and as the liquid drains out. You may be asked to stop urinating, change positions, and start urinating again.
• Your bladder may be filled a second time. The catheter may slip out by itself while your bladder is draining. If not, it will be removed.
• Once your bladder is empty, a final X-ray is usually taken.

Having a test can be stressful both for your child and for you. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for the test.

Preparing for the test

• Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
• Tell the doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies your child takes. Some may increase the risk of problems during the procedure. Your doctor will tell you if your child should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.
• Talk to your child about the test. Hospitals know how to take care of children. The staff will do all they can to make it easier for your child.
• Tell the doctor if your child is allergic to iodine. Iodine is usually used in the contrast material that the doctor will put in your child's bladder.
• Tell your doctor or nurse about any allergies your child has to medicines or latex.
• For 1 week before the test, your child should not have any X-ray tests that use barium contrast material (such as a barium enema). Do not give your child any medicine that contains bismuth (such as Pepto-Bismol). Barium and bismuth show up on X-rays. This can make it hard to see the picture clearly.
• Ask if a special tour of the operating area and hospital is available. This may make your child feel less nervous about what happens.
• If your child has symptoms of a urinary infection (such as burning with urination) close to the test date, call your doctor as soon as possible. You may need to wait to have the test until after you treat the infection.

Some results may be available immediately after the cystourethrogram. Final results are usually available within 1 to 2 days.