A retrograde pyelogram is a medical procedure where a radioactive dye is injected into the ureter before x-raying the patient to diagnose abnormalities in the bladder and kidneys. It is becoming less common as ultrasound technology improves. Patients may experience pain or difficulty urinating, and recovery depends on their overall health. The procedure carries minimal risk, but pregnant patients or those with allergies should discuss concerns with their doctor.
A retrograde pyelogram is a medical procedure, in which the doctor injects a radioactive dye into the ureter before x-raying the patient in an attempt to get a clearer view of the ureter and kidneys. The dye makes it easier for the doctor to diagnose any abnormalities. The dye then travels from the bladder to the kidney in the opposite direction to normal fluid flow, after which the procedure is named. As the technology behind ultrasound and other diagnostic tools improves, retrograde pyelograms are becoming less common.
Doctors use a retrograde pyelogram to determine abnormal blockages or fluid flow in the bladder and kidneys. Obstructions such as kidney stones, tumors and blood clots can all be examined using retrograde pyelograms. Narrowing of the renal or urethral tubes can also be detected through a retrograde pyelogram. Patients receiving this procedure may experience pain in the nether regions or have trouble urinating.
During the retrograde pyelogram, the patient will first be asked to remove any clothing or jewelry that may interfere with the procedure. Some patients may have an intravenous (IV) line inserted into their arm or hand to administer a mild sedative before the procedure. Next, the patient will be asked to lie face up on the x-ray table with legs in stirrups.
Then an endoscope will be inserted through the urethral opening and then into the bladder. The endoscope can be a rigid or flexible tube to which a light can be attached for greater visibility. This will be followed by a catheter, through which the dye will be injected. A series of X-rays will be taken during scheduled intervals to monitor the dye as it travels through your bladder and kidneys.
Recovery after the procedure will depend on the patient’s overall health. In most cases, once the patient is alert and their blood pressure, pulse and respiration are all stable, they will be released to go home, as long as there are no other medical issues at hand. The patient’s urine will be closely monitored for signs of blood or irregular volume over the next few days. There may be some blood in the urine or pain when urinating, but this is not necessarily abnormal or indicative of a problem. The doctor should be notified immediately if the patient experiences fever or chills, increased pain around the urinary opening, or increased difficulty urinating.
Having a retrograde pyelogram carries minimal risk. The amount of radiation in the dye used during the procedure is very low, but patients who may be pregnant may be advised to avoid this procedure. The dye used can also cause allergic reactions in a small percentage of patients. Anyone with an allergy or sensitivity to any type of dye, iodine, or shellfish should be careful. Patients with pregnancies or allergies should discuss these concerns with their doctor before performing a retrograde pyelogram.
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