After a child has a urinary tract infection or recurring infections, a condition called vesicoureteral (VU) reflux can occur. A VCUG tests for this problem, which causes urine backup the lower ureter. The backup can result in a swollen kidney or increased infections. VCUG is a common x-ray that shows the bladder and lower urinary tract. Using motion x-ray called fluoroscopy, the radiologist is able to view and assess the function of the bladder and urinary tract, watching as the bladder is filled and emptied with a water-based contrast solution
Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) in a 2-year-old child with urinary infections. An x-ray of the abdomen after contrast material has been dripped into the bladder (large round structure at bottom of picture) shows contrast flowing upward into the ureters and kidneys (long tubes with branches at top) indicating reflux. Reflux should not occur and indicates an abnormality of the valves in the bladder.
After a child has a urinary tract infection or recurring infections, a condition called vesicoureteral (VU) reflux can occur. A VCUG tests for this problem, which causes urine backup the lower ureter. The backup can result in a swollen kidney or increased infections. VCUG is a common x-ray that shows the bladder and lower urinary tract. Using motion x-ray called fluoroscopy, the radiologist is able to view and assess the function of the bladder and urinary tract, watching as the bladder is filled and emptied with a water-based contrast solution
Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) in a 2-year-old child with urinary infections. An x-ray of the abdomen after contrast material has been dripped into the bladder (large round structure at bottom of picture) shows contrast flowing upward into the ureters and kidneys (long tubes with branches at top) indicating reflux. Reflux should not occur and indicates an abnormality of the valves in the bladder.