This exam evaluates for stones in the kidneys, and also for stones or other obstructions in the bladder or the ureters (which connect the kidneys to the bladder). The exam is often used to evaluate people who have blood in the urine.

Preparation for the Exam
Please notify the technologist if your child is allergic to X-ray contrast dye or has other allergies or asthma. A child can have an allergic reaction to the contrast, just as people may react to bee stings or medicines. We are prepared for this, with the expertise and medicines to treat such reactions. However, if your child has a known allergy to the contrast, treatment can be given on the day before the exam to prevent the reaction.

During the Exam
A pediatric technologist will discuss the procedure with children who are old enough to communicate. Age-appropriate language will be used to explain the exam. Parents are often allowed to stay in the X-ray room during the test.

Your child may be changed into a gown, and then will lie on his or her back on the fluoroscopy table for an initial X-ray of the abdomen to be obtained. The contrast dye will then be injected through a small needle into the vein. A topical anesthetic cream is available to numb the skin before the needle is used.

The dye may give a feeling of warmth or nausea. This sensation passes quickly.

A series of X-rays will be obtained after the contrast is injected. If there is an indication of a blockage in one of the ureters on the initial images, delayed images may be obtained over several hours to find the location of the blockage.

The IV will be removed after the exam. This exam takes approximately 45 minutes if there is no blockage. It can take up to several hours if there is a blockage.