VCUG

By Vincent Iannelli, M.D., About.com

Created: September 22, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A VCUG or voiding cystourethrogram, along with a renal sonogram, is a test that is commonly done after a child has a urinary tract infection (UTI).

According to Children's Medical Center in Dallas, a VCUG is 'a specific x-ray that examines the urinary tract. A catheter (hollow tube) is placed in the urethra (tube that drains urine from the bladder to the outside of the body) and the bladder is filled with a liquid dye. X-ray images will be taken as the bladder fills and empties. The images will show if there is any reverse flow of urine into the ureters and kidneys,' which can indicate that your child has vesicoureteral reflux.

Although most children do very well during a VCUG, especially if it is done in a Children's Hospital, it is often possible to ask that your child be sedated for the VCUG if you think that they won't tolerate the procedure.

Pronunciation: V.C.U.G.

Also Known As: Voiding Cystourethrogram

Examples: Our pediatrician scheduled a renal sonogram and a VCUG after our daughter had a UTI to make sure that she didn't have urinary reflux.