300 Longwood Avenue Boston, MA 02115 (617) 355-6000 My Child Has: Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) Programs that treat this condition Center for General Pediatric Urology   What is an intravenous pyelogram? An intravenous pyelogram, or IVP, is a special x-ray of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. It is performed by a specially trained X-ray technologist or radiologist. How is the test performed? During the test, a small amount of a special liquid, called contrast, is given through a needle into a vein. The contrast fills the urinary tract on the x-ray and helps the doctor to see the organs. The contrast is passed out of the body with urine. Why is an IVP performed? An IVP shows how well the kidneys drain urine and if there are any problems, such as blockage or swelling. An IVP is usually needed if to check urine flow after surgery on the kidneys, ureters and bladder and to check for blockages that cause hydronephosis. The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice, which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional. Copyright © Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.