Cystography, Retrograde Cystography, Fractionated Cystography (Progressive Cystography)

Cystography, Retrograde Cystography, Fractional Cystography (Staged Cystography)

DEFINITION: This is an examination performed to visualize the bladder under fluoroscopic guidance by inserting a special catheter (Foley or Nelaton catheter) into the bladder and observing the passage of an iodinated contrast agent mixed in an appropriate ratio with saline solution administered through the catheter. In cases where bladder tumors are being staged or where bladder wall invasion is suspected, this examination can also be performed using a specialized method called “fractional cystography.” Fractional cystography is a distinct examination in which the bladder’s expansion is assessed on a single film following the administration of contrast medium in generally three stages and in increasing volumes.

APPOINTMENT: Required.

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: None.

PATIENT PREPARATION: None.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Any procedures involving barium or iodine-based contrast agents (especially IVP) must be performed prior to this examination.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy, urethral stricture, posterior urethral valve.

CONTRAST: Iodine-based contrast medium

AVERAGE PROCEDURE DURATION: 20–40 min.

TRANSPORT: None.

POST-PROCEDURE INFORMATION: The patient may resume normal daily activities. The examination is evaluated and reported by a radiologist. The films and the examination report are provided to the patient together.