What a Pediatric Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) Is
A voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) is an x-ray exam of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. This exam will help determine whether urine moves backward toward the kidney (reflux) and the bladder’s ability to hold and empty urine.
Urine is produced in the kidneys and transported to the bladder through tubes called ureters. Normally, a valve at the ureterovesical junction (where the ureters joins the bladder) prevents urine in the bladder from flowing back into the ureters and kidneys. Some children have an abnormality in the valves or ureters that allows urine to flow into the ureters and, in more severe cases, into the kidneys. This condition is often congenital, but has other causes such as a blockage, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and urinary tract infections.
Urinary tract infections in children are commonly caused by this backward flow, or reflux. By performing a VCUG after a urinary tract infection, a radiologist can determine if reflux is the cause and your primary care physician can begin appropriate treatment to prevent future complications.
RIA radiologists interpret the results of pediatric VCUG exams at several Denver area hospitals.