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Retrograde cystography - Risks

Alternative Names

Cystography - retrograde; Cystogram

What the risks are:

There is some risk of infection from the catheter. Symptoms may include:

  • Burning during urination (after the first day)
  • Chills
  • Decreased blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Fever
  • Increased heart rate
  • Increased breathing rate

The amount of radiation exposure is similar to that of other x-rays. As with any radiation exposure, nursing or pregnant women should not usually have this test, unless it is determined that the benefits outweigh the risks.

Special considerations:

In males, testicles are shielded from the x-rays.

This test is not performed very often, but is usually combined with CT Scan imaging for better resolution. Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) or cystoscopy is more frequently used.

  • Reviewed last on: 10/11/2010
  • Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Chief of Urology, Cambridge Health Alliance, Visiting Assistant Professor of Surgery, Harvard Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Bhayani SB, Siegel CL. Urinary tract imaging: Basic principles. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 4.

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