Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is an x-ray exam that uses an injection of contrast material to evaluate your kidneys, ureters and bladder and help diagnose blood in the urine or pain in your side or lower back.

What are IVP dyes?

IVP is an x-ray exam that uses a special dye to outline the kidneys, ureters and bladder. It can show how your renal and urinary system handles fluid waste. This helps your health care team find problems in the urinary tract.

Does an IVP use dye?

During an IVP, a health care provider will inject one of your veins with a substance called contrast dye. The dye travels through your bloodstream and into your urinary tract. Contrast dye makes your kidneys, bladder, and ureters look bright white on the x-rays.