A voiding cystourethrogram is an x-ray examination of the bladder and lower urinary tract. In children, it is often performed after a urinary tract infection to diagnose a condition known as vesicoureteral (VU) reflux. Normally, urine is produced in the kidneys, passes through the ureters to the bladder, and leaves the bladder during urination. A valve mechanism prevents urine from backing up into the kidneys, but an abnormality in the valve allows urine to flow backwards into the ureters, known as VU reflux.

What to Expect

For the exam, your child will be positioned on an x-ray table. An initial x-ray will be taken. Then an antiseptic solution will be applied to the genital area and a small catheter will be gently inserted through the urethra into the bladder. The antiseptic will feel cold to the child. The bladder will be slowly filled with contrast material through the catheter. When the catheter is inserted and the bladder is filled with contrast, your child will not feel pain, but will feel a sensation of pressure and fullness.

The radiologist will watch a monitor while the bladder is filling to see if contrast flows backward into the ureters. After the bladder is filled, the catheter will be removed and a series of x-rays will be taken as your child empties his bladder. When the child is finished urinating, a final x-ray will be taken to see how well the bladder emptied.

Young children are often fearful and anxious during this procedure. No sedation is given, however a parent is permitted to stay with the child during the procedure and our technologists will do all they can to minimize discomfort and alleviate anxiety.

A radiologist will review the images and a report will be sent to your physician, who will discuss the results with you.

Preparing for Your Child’s Voiding Cystourethrogram

There is no special preparation for this procedure.

• Metal can interfere with voiding cystourethrogram images, so please avoid dressing your child in clothing with zippers or metal snaps.
• Please register 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
• Please bring a complete list of your child’s medications, vitamins and supplements to the appointment.
• Please bring the physician order to the appointment.

Scheduling an Appointment

A voiding cystourethrogram is performed by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment by calling Lake Health’s Centralized Scheduling Department at 1-866-652-5253.
If you are unable to keep the appointment, please call us to cancel or reschedule.