How to Prepare for IVU
An intravenous urography, IVU, is a special x-ray test designed to assess the urinary tract, bladder and kidneys. The procedure involves injecting a contrasting dye into a vein in your arm. This dye travels through your system to the kidneys. During a 30 minute period a series of x-ray pictures are taken and reviewed for any abnormalities, such as infections, kidney stones, tumors and obstructions. In order to have clear x-ray pictures for evaluation, some preparation is necessary.Things You'll Need
- Mild laxative tablets
Instructions
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Set up an appointment through your doctor to have a blood test to check for kidney failure. The IVU requires your kidneys to filter the contrasting dye. Your doctor may decide not to schedule the procedure, if your kidneys are not functioning properly.
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Inform your doctor of any food or seafood allergies. Alert him of any medications you may be taking. If you are a diabetic and taking the drug metformin, your doctor may ask you to stop taking the drug for a couple of days prior to the IVU. This medication in combination with the contrasting dye used in the procedure can have an adverse effect on the kidneys.
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Stop eating food that is high in fiber two days before the test. Take two mild laxative tablets at 10pm the night before the IVU. Do not eat any food or drink anything -- except water -- for 6 hours prior to the test. Except for diabetes medication, you can take any other medication as usual.
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Tell your doctor and x-ray radiographer if you are pregnant prior to the test. An alternate contrasting dye will be used during the procedure. If you are breastfeeding, collect and store enough of your milk to feed your baby for a minimum of 24 hours after the IVU. This is because the contrasting agent can stay in your system for 24 hours.
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Arrive early on the day the IVU is scheduled. Fill out all questionnaires and consent forms. Remove all jewelry, change into a gown and empty your bladder in preparation for the test.
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