Tests and scans
An intravenous urogram (IVU) is a test that looks at the whole of your urinary system. It's sometimes called an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). It looks at the:
kidneys
bladder
tubes that connect the kidney with the bladder (ureters)
The test uses x-rays and a colourless dye, also called contrast medium. This shows up the soft tissues of the .
A usually does the scan.
An IVU test can show if cancer is growing in any part of your urinary system. The cancer can show up as a blockage or an irregular outline on the wall of the bladder or ureter.
Some IVU tests need you to stop eating and drinking for a few hours before your test. Your appointment letter will have written instructions on what to do beforehand. It is important to read it carefully as this information can vary between hospitals.
Tell the x-ray staff in advance if you're diabetic. You may need different instructions on how to prepare for this test.
You usually continue taking your regular medications unless you are told otherwise. You might also have a blood test to check your kidney function before your test. Let the x-ray staff know if you have kidney problems.
Tell the radiology department beforehand if you're pregnant or think you maybe. X-rays could affect your developing baby.
You have this test in the hospital x-ray or radiology department as an outpatient. It takes about 1 hour.
When you arrive your radiographer will explain the procedure and ask you to sign a consent form. They will ask about your medical history and any allergies you may have. If you have any questions, this is a good time to ask your radiographer.
You'll have a small plastic tube called a cannula put into a vein in the back of your hand or arm. The radiographer uses this to put the dye into your vein.
The radiographer will give you a hospital gown to change into. You also need to remove any jewellery or metal objects that will get in the way of the x-ray pictures.
The radiographer will take you into the x-ray room. You lie flat on your back on the X-ray table. They will inject the dye into the cannula. The injection may make you feel hot, and some people get a metallic taste and have a feeling that you want to have a pee (pass urine). These feelings usually only last a few minutes.
The radiographer takes several x-rays as the dye passes through your system. During this time, you should keep still, and they may ask you to hold your breath when they take an x-ray.
Before the last x-ray, they may ask you to go to the toilet to empty your .
Once the test is over the radiographer will take out the cannula. You can also get dressed and go home.
You can eat and drink normally.
The radiographer may ask you to drink plenty for a couple of hours after the test. This is to help flush the dye out of your system.
Most people do not have problems having this test, but as with any medical procedure, there are possible risks. Doctors make sure the benefits of having the test outweigh these risks.
Some of the possible risks include:
If you are pregnant or think you might be, you should contact the x-ray department before your appointment. X-rays use a very small amount of radiation, this could harm your unborn baby.
There is a risk of having an allergic reaction to the injection of dye, though this is rare. The radiographer will ask if you have any allergies or asthma before you have the test. The symptoms most often start with a rash, feeling weak, sweating and difficulty breathing. If this happens, the staff will give you medicines to control the reaction. Before your test your radiographer will ask if you have any allergies or asthma before you have the test.
Tell your radiographer immediately if you feel unwell.
There's a risk that the contrast medium will leak outside the vein. This can cause swelling and pain where the cannula was put in, but this is rare. Tell your radiographer if you have any swelling or pain. Let your GP know if it doesn't get better or starts to get worse when you're at home.
Exposure to radiation during an x-ray can slightly increase your risk of developing cancer in the future. The amount of radiation is kept to the minimum. Talk to your doctor if this worries you.
You should get your test results within 1 or 2 weeks at a follow up appointment. Ask your doctor, radiographer or nurse how long it will take to get them. Contact the doctor who arranged the test if you haven’t heard anything after a couple of weeks.
Waiting for test results can be a worrying time. You might have contact details for a specialist nurse. You can get in touch with them for information and support if you need to. It may help to talk to a close friend or relative about how you feel.
We have more information on tests, treatment and support if you have been diagnosed with cancer.
Last reviewed: 13 May 2025
Next review due: 13 May 2028
Find out about tests to diagnose cancer and monitor it during and after treatment, including what each test can show, how you have it and how to prepare.
Search for the cancer type you want to find out about. Each section has detailed information about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, research and coping with cancer.
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
What to ask your doctor about clinical trials.
Meet and chat to other cancer people affected by cancer.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
