IVU
IVU or Intravenous Urography is a radiological procedure used to visualize abnormalities of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
Overview[edit | edit source]
Intravenous Urography (IVU), also known as Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP), is a medical procedure used to visualize the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The procedure involves injecting a contrast material into a vein, which then travels through the bloodstream and is filtered out by the kidneys. This contrast material makes the urinary tract visible on the X-ray images.
Procedure[edit | edit source]
During an IVU, a radiologist injects a contrast material into a vein. The contrast material then travels through the bloodstream and is filtered out by the kidneys. The radiologist takes a series of X-ray images at different times to capture the contrast material as it travels through the urinary tract. This allows the radiologist to see any abnormalities in the urinary tract.
Uses[edit | edit source]
IVU is used to diagnose and monitor a variety of urinary tract conditions. These include kidney stones, tumors, or infections. It can also be used to assess the urinary tract before or after surgery.
Risks[edit | edit source]
Like all medical procedures, IVU carries some risks. These include allergic reactions to the contrast material, kidney damage, and radiation exposure. However, the benefits of diagnosing a serious condition often outweigh these risks.
Alternatives[edit | edit source]
Alternatives to IVU include ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI. These imaging techniques can provide similar information without the need for contrast material or radiation exposure.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD