Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG)
Disease Information
Overview
A VCUG, or a voiding cystourethrogram, is a minimally invasive test that uses a special x-ray technology called fluoroscopy to visualize your child's urinary tract and bladder.
A VCUG can help:
- diagnose vesicoureteral reflux - a condition in which urine flows the wrong way, from the bladder back up to the kidneys
- determine why your child has recurring urinary tract infections
- discover if antibiotic treatment or anti-reflux surgery was effective
- check if there are any abnormalities or blockages of the urethra
How Boston Children's Hospital approaches VCUG
VCUGs are performed in the hospital's Division of Diagnostic Radiology, which has an experienced team of pediatric radiologists, nurses, technologists and a Child Life specialist dedicated to making your child's visit as safe, pleasant and comfortable as possible.
We perform more than 2,000 VCUGs a year, almost all without sedation. Our Child Life specialist supports your family before and during the exam.
