Voiding Cystourethrogram Exam Preparations

There are no specific physical preparations necessary for this exam. However, many patients find it helpful to focus on some simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing to help themselves prepare mentally. If you feel uncomfortable about your ability to empty your bladder on command, you could benefit from this approach. Just remember a very patient, conscientious and respectful staff will do everything in their power to put you at ease.

The Procedure

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. You will be asked to change into a gown and recline on a movable table. Because the bladder needs to be quite full to obtain the best picture, your technologist will insert a catheter (a thin latex tube) into the bladder. Liquid, containing a dye-like substance called a contrast agent is then allowed to flow naturally into the bladder until full.

The fluoroscopy camera moves over the table to capture a sequence of images of the full bladder.

Your technologist will then remove the catheter and turn the movable table to an upright position. You will then be asked to void your bladder (or urinate) while the technologist acquires images of the process.

After the Exam

There are no side effects to the procedure and you can return to work or normal activity immediately. It is a good idea to drink extra fluids to flush the system of any remaining contrast agent.