An intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is a scan used to look at the urinary system and check how well it is working.

The urinary system includes:

• the kidneys – filter waste from the blood, turning it into urine, also called wee
• the ureters – thin tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder
• the bladder – stores urine
• the urethra – the tube that carries urine out of the body.

An IVP uses a type of imaging called fluoroscopy. Fluoroscopy is where many X-ray pictures are taken and then put together as a moving picture to show how the organs work.

You will get instructions from the hospital or your child’s doctor about how to prepare for the scan. 

These may include:

• when to stop eating
• when to drink clear fluids
• what medicines your child should take or stop taking.

A special fluid called contrast is used in an IVP to help show the urinary system clearly. In rare cases, contrast can cause a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

Tell your child’s treatment team if your child has:

• any allergies
• a history of anaphylaxis
• kidney problems.

The scan usually includes the following steps:

1. your child will lie on an X-ray table with a camera above
2. a small tube called an intravenous (IV) cannula is placed into a vein in their arm
3. the doctor injects contrast fluid through the IV cannula
4. your child may feel warm or have a funny taste in their mouth as the contrast enters the body
5. X-ray images are taken of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.

The scan takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Your child’s treatment team will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow after the scan is finished. 

Most children can eat, drink, and play as normal afterwards.

Your child’s doctor will arrange a follow-up appointment to talk about the results.