Cystourethrogram - diagnostic imaging procedure - definition, urine, bladder and

What is Cystourethrogram

A diagnostic imaging procedure that shows the flow of URINE from the BLADDER through the URETHRA. The radiologist instills a radio-opaque solution (contrast medium) into the bladder through a catheter, then takes a series of X-rays as the solution fills the bladder and urethra. The radio-opaque solution makes these soft tissue structures visible on X-RAY. In a voiding cystourethrogram, the radiologist takes additional Xrays with the person urinating, to visualize the entire flow of urine.

Cystourethrogram shows structural abnormalities, such as narrowing or stricture, of the urethra and functional problems, such as VESICOURETERAL REFLUX (a condition in which urine flows back into the ureters from the bladder). The procedure requires no preparation or recovery and takes about 20 minutes to complete. Some people experience discomfort during the instillation of the contrast medium because it creates the pressure of a full bladder. Minor discomfort or burning may occur with URINATION for a day or two after the procedure.

See also BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA (BPH); BLADDER CATHETERIZATION; CYSTOSCOPY; URETER; URETHRAL STRICTURE.

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