Do You Need a CT Urogram?

Aurogram is a radiograph, or X-ray image, of the urinary tract, and the process of making one is known as urography. It is used in diagnostic testing for various conditions related to the urinary tract and is also used to follow up on treatment for conditions like kidney stones and cancers of the urinary tract. As a general rule, urography is an outpatient procedure.

In addition to using X-rays for urograms, it is also possible to use Computed Tomography (CT) machines. A CT urogram is often of better quality than one produced with X-ray, and it sometimes reduces exposure to radiation for the patient. Not all hospitals offer this option, however, and it can be more expensive than a traditional one.

Urograms can reveal blockages such as kidney stones, congenital abnormalities, and cancers of the urinary tract. If something unexpected or abnormal is identified, the patient may need follow up tests, such as biopsies, to determine the nature of condition and to help determine what the next step should be. After treatment for conditions like kidney stones, it is common to request a urogram to ensure that the all of the stones have passed.

CT Urogram Exam Preparation
• No Barium.
• No solid food 4 hours prior to the exam.
• Drink water, there is no restriction on your water intake.
• If you have an allergy to the IV iodinated contrast media you will need to be premedicated.
• Patients may be asked to dress into an exam gown.
• You will be asked to hold your breath for 10-20 seconds while the images are being taken.
• Exam should be completed within 30 minutes.

After the Exam
• Following your exam you will be asked to remain in the department until your IV has been removed and a standard X-ray may be taken 20 minutes after the CT.
• The report will be forwarded to your doctor so the appropriate next steps can be taken if treatment is needed.

For more information about the CT Urogram exam and other diagnostic imaging services available, call 239-593-4222.

Dr. Eric Vensel
B.S., Trinity College – 1995
M.D., University of Miami School of Medicine – 2000
Internship, General Surgery,  University of Florida – 2000-2001
Certified: American Board of Radiology – 2005
Residency: Diagnostic Radiology, University of Florida 2001-2005; Chief Resident 2004-2005
Fellowship: Interventional Radiology, University of Florida – 2005-2006
Areas of Special Interest: Interventional Radiology

Naples Diagnostic Imaging Center
239-593-4222
www.NaplesImaging.com