RX retrograde urethrocystography and voiding
What is it?
Retrograde-minctional cystourethrography is a diagnostic test useful for the clinical evaluation of pathologies affecting the urethra, bladder or ureters. It consists in performing X-rays aimed at the lower urinary tract, after the application of contrast medium through a bladder catheter.
When is this exam indicated?
The whole procedure is performed by a sterile technique and is recommended for the analysis of functional disorders of urination, for the evaluation of morphological alterations such as stenosis or urethral diverticula, as well as to highlight vesicoureteral reflux or for post-operative evaluation of patients undergoing urethrotomy or urethroplasty.
How is it performed?
The examination consists of two phases, retrograde urethrography and urinary cystourethrography. The patient is prepared by the initial placement of a bladder catheter at the level of the urethra or the navicular fossa of the urethra (for men), a few centimeters from the skin orifice. A contrast agent is then applied. This results in an opacification of the urethra, which is visible on an X-ray.
Later, the same bladder catheter is used to fill not only the urethra, but also the bladder cavity. At this point, the catheter is removed and the patient invited to urinate. New radiographs are then taken to evaluate the urethra of the bladder and ureters, while urinating.
Contraindications
The only contraindications to performing cystography are:
- Ongoing urinary tract infections;
- Pregnancy ( known or suspected);
- Distention of the upper urinary tract ( revealed by a preceding ultrasound).
- In these cases, it is important to notify the radiologist, who will consider postponing the examination.
Where do we treat it?
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