Intravenous Pyelogram

Radiology Terms and Definitions

We heard you are going to have some special pictures of your kidneys called an IVP and we thought we would tell you about them so you'll know what's going on! The IVP is done in the Radiology Department of the Children's Hospital. To make sure that the pictures come out clearly, get mommy and daddy to read the following information which explains the special preparation that is required for this test.

• An x-ray technologist will have you take off your clothes except for your underpants, shoes and socks.
• A hospital gown will be given to you which ties up in the back.
• The technologist will bring you and your parents into a bright room where you will be asked to lie on your back on the x-ray table.
• The table even has a mattress to make you more comfortable. Above, you will see a big camera with a light that shines on your tummy.
• The IVP will take around 40 minutes and mommy and daddy can stay with you the whole time if you want them to.
• After the first picture is taken, a radiologist will inject some clear liquid called contrast material into your arm.
• We won't kid you...it will sting for a second when the small needle is put in but only for a second!
• The amount of contrast material that is injected depends on your weight. How much do you weigh? You will be asked.
• It takes a few minutes for the radiologist to inject all of the clear liquid in your arm.
• After the injection, the technologist will put a Band-Aid with a happy face on your arm.
• The x-ray technologist will then take pictures of your kidneys. It is very important that you stay very still because we don't want the pictures spoiled.
• After the technologist has taken all of the pictures, you may get dressed and go home.
• Don't forget to ask for a special sticker which we give to all of the boys and girls who have had their pictures taken.

No preparation required for IVP