Services/Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)

Your doctor has ordered an IVP to better visualize the kidneys, ureters (the tubes that connect your kidneys to your bladder) and bladder. The test requires an injection of contrast into a vein in your arm and taking x-rays at particular time intervals.

Preparation

You will need to prepare yourself for the test according to the directions that you received from your doctor’s office. To get the best possible x-rays it is important that your bowel be empty for the test. To assist with that you have been given two laxative tablets (Ducolax).

Day prior to the examination

• NO Breakfast
• Take the 2 Ducolax (Bisacodyl) tablets by mouth at 4 PM. Please be aware that Ducolax is a laxative
• Clear liquid supper
• You are allowed sips of water during the night
  

Cautions

If you have ASTHMA (or any history of asthma) or have had a previous allergic reaction to IV dye (x-ray dye) please inform the office staff at the time your appointment is scheduled, so that proper medication can be given to you prior to the test. Failure to do so may result in rescheduling your test.

Also, if you are DIABETIC, please inform us if you are taking GLUCOPHAGE or GLUCOVANCE. You must not take Glucophage or Glucovance for 48 hours following the test.

If you are, or think you are, pregnant, you need to inform the technologist before the exam. In this case, your physician will determine if the x-ray is medically necessary for the diagnosis.

The entire exam takes approximately 45 minutes and you may return to your normal diet and activity immediately following the test. The radiologist will read and dictate the results and they will be sent to your doctor, so that they may go over the results with you at your next appointment. If you have any questions prior to your scan, PLEASE call us at 610-435-1600.

1230 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Suite 104
Allentown, PA 18103