VCUG

VCUG (Voiding Cystourethrogram)

McKenzie Pediatrics 2006

This is a special test done by a radiologist to see how your bladder is working.

What happens when you have a VCUG?  Lets go through it step by step.

One parent will be allowed to stay with you during the tes (mothers must not be pregnant).  After you have taken off your clothes (so they don't get wet), and put on a gown, you will go into a large room, where you will see two big machines (cameras) near a long metal table.  The cameras are connected to a TV screen in the room.

You will be asked to climb up onto the table and lie down.  The technician will ask you to pull your feet up close to your body while sticking your knees out to the side like a "frog".  Then she or he will wash the private area between your legs with some soapy liquid to make it super clean.  A small catheter will gently slide into your bladder and will be loosely taped to your leg so it won't fall out.

You will feel like you have to go to the bathroom.  We know it's not easy, but try to hold as much urine as you possibly can.  When you can't hold another drop, tell the radiologist.  Believe it or not, they will ask you to go to the bathroom right there on the table?  While you're urinating, they will take pictures of your bladder and kidneys.  you will hear different noises from the machine when you have your pictures taken.  It is really important to lie very still for the pictures so they won'e come out blurry.  After all these pictures, you are done.

You may be a little sore the next couple of times you go to the bathroom.  Don't worry, if will go away soon.

You've done a great job!!!!

(Adopted from "I'm going for a VCUG" by Pediatric Urology Associates, New Jersey)