Cystography
Cystography is a medical imaging procedure used to visualize the bladder by injecting a contrast dye and taking X-ray images. It is particularly useful for diagnosing issues related to the bladder, such as cancers of the bladder and urinary system, and prostate cancer. This procedure is often recommended for patients who experience symptoms like difficulty urinating, frequent or urgent urination, incontinence, blood in the urine, or pain during urination.
During cystography, a catheter is inserted into the bladder to introduce the dye, creating a fuller bladder and allowing for detailed imaging. Patients might be required to prepare by abstaining from solid food and managing fluid intake prior to the procedure. After the dye is injected, X-rays are conducted, and the patient may need to change positions for optimal views.
Following the procedure, patients are typically advised to drink plenty of fluids to help eliminate the dye, which may temporarily change the color of their urine. While cystography is considered generally safe, there are some risks, including infection, allergic reactions to the dye, and potential bladder wall rupture. Overall, cystography provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals in assessing bladder health and identifying potential issues.
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Cystography
DEFINITION: Cystography is a procedure in which dye is injected into the bladder (a fluoroscopic study) and X-rays are taken to examine the organ. It differs from a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) by focusing on the bladder rather than the posterior urethra.
Cancers diagnosed: Cancers of the bladder and urinary system, prostate cancer
Why performed: A cystography may be ordered when a patient experiences difficulty beginning or completing urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, an urgent or frequent need to urinate, incontinence, blood in the urine, or pain while urinating. Cystography gives doctors a detailed picture of the bladder to check for problems such as cancerous growth. A biopsy may be performed during the cystography if a concerning tissue or tumor is located.
Patient preparation: Before the procedure, the patient may be asked to refrain from eating solid food for a period. Depending on the type and purpose of the procedure, the patient may also be asked not to drink any fluids or to drink an increased amount of fluids.
Steps of the procedure: The patient is first asked to urinate to empty the bladder, and a flexible or rigid is inserted into the bladder. Through the catheter, a contrast dye is injected into the bladder until the bladder is full, causing the patient to experience the feeling of a need to urinate. Once the dye is injected, X-rays are taken of the bladder. If the patient is male, a lead shield is used to protect the testes from the radiation. The patient may be asked to move into several positions to allow for different views of the bladder. Once all the necessary X-rays are taken, the catheter is removed, and the patient is allowed to expel the dye.
After the procedure: After the procedure, the patient may be advised to drink a large amount of clear fluids for a few days to help flush the dye out of the bladder. Because of the dye, the patient’s urine may be an unusual color.
Risks: Some risks are associated with cystography. There is a small risk of infection because of the catheter insertion and a small risk of allergic reaction to the injected dye. This procedure is generally not advised for pregnant women because exposure to X-rays can harm the fetus. If a biopsy is performed, excessive bleeding may occur. Though rare, there is a risk of rupturing the bladder wall.
Results: The cystography will provide the healthcare team with detailed pictures of the patient’s bladder to use in evaluating the presence of cancerous growths and other bladder problems. Patients generally do not experience any long-term side effects from the procedure.
Bibliography
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