Voiding Cystography, Voiding Cystourethrography, (Micturition Cystourethrography)

DEFINITION: This is an examination performed to visualize the bladder, ureters, and urethra 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. Performed specifically to investigate vesicoureteral reflux (backflow), this examination produces radiographs that visualize the entire urinary system during urination.

APPOINTMENT: Required.

DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: None.

PATIENT PREPARATION: None.

CONDITIONS PREVENTING THE EXAMINATION: Any procedures involving barium or iodine contrast (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 performed by a radiologist.