Ureter and bladder X-ray, also known as a retrograde pyelogram, is a type of diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays to visualize the ureters and bladder. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the ureters through a small catheter that is inserted into the urethra. The contrast dye helps to highlight the ureters and bladder on X-ray images.
The test is used to diagnose conditions that affect the ureters and bladder, such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and tumors. It can also be used to evaluate the functioning of the ureters and bladder.
During the test, the patient lies on an X-ray table while the contrast dye is injected. X-ray images are taken at different intervals to capture the flow of the dye through the ureters and bladder. The test is usually done on an outpatient basis and takes about 30-60 minutes to complete.
After the test, the patient may experience mild discomfort or pain when urinating, and the urine may be pink or red due to the dye. These symptoms typically resolve within a day or two. Your doctor will discuss the results of the test with you and determine the appropriate course of treatment if necessary.
How does the urinary system work
The urinary system, also known as the renal system, is responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and eliminating them from the body as urine. The urinary system consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the ribcage. They are responsible for filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood. The waste products and excess fluids form urine, which is then transported to the bladder via two narrow tubes called ureters.
The bladder is a hollow muscular organ that stores urine until it is eliminated from the body. The bladder can expand to hold up to 16 ounces (about 500 milliliters) of urine. When the bladder is full, nerve signals from the bladder tell the brain that it is time to urinate.
The urethra is a narrow tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. In males, the urethra also carries semen during ejaculation.
The process of urine formation begins in the kidneys, where blood is filtered to remove waste products and excess fluids. The filtered fluid, known as urine, is then transported through the ureters to the bladder, where it is stored until it is eliminated from the body through the urethra. The urinary system also helps to regulate the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body, as well as the pH balance of the blood.
Reasons for the procedure
Ureter and bladder X-ray, or retrograde pyelogram, may be done for several reasons, including:
Kidney stones: The test can help identify the presence and location of kidney stones that can cause pain and other symptoms.
Urinary tract infections: The procedure can detect any abnormalities in the urinary tract that may be causing recurring infections.
Tumors: The test can help identify any tumors or other growths that may be affecting the urinary tract.
Obstructions: The procedure can identify any obstructions in the ureters or bladder that may be causing urinary retention or other symptoms.
Abnormal urine flow: The test can identify any abnormalities in the flow of urine, such as reflux, that can cause damage to the kidneys.
Your doctor may recommend a ureter and bladder X-ray if you are experiencing symptoms such as pain or discomfort during urination, frequent urinary tract infections, blood in the urine, or urinary incontinence. The test can help diagnose the underlying cause of these symptoms and guide appropriate treatment.
