UROLOGICAL FAQS
If you have an urgent medical issue, please call 911. Our intent is to provide general information only.
What should I expect at my first visit?
Upon arrival you will be asked to fill out patient registration forms. These forms can be filled out before coming if you prefer (click here to download) or you may request they be mailed. Your insurance card will be scanned into our system and any applicable copays will be collected. Our professional staff will obtain some preliminary information regarding your visit which may include weighing you on our scales, obtaining a urine sample, and checking your pulse. It is reasonable to expect to spend aapproximately 15-60 minutes with the doctor, depending on the nature of your visit. Additional diagnostic studies may need to be scheduled at another time.
RADIOLOGY STUDIES
What is a CT IVP?
A radiologic exam for a thorough study of the kidney and ureters. A plain film of the abdomen is done first followed by CT scan of the kidneys with and without IV contrast. The CT scan requires a bowel prep to be picked at the hospital.What is a renal colic CT?
A radiologic exam without dye most commonly used to look for urinary stones.What is a Retrograde Pyelogram?
A test to visualize the kidney and ureter by placing a cystoscope through the urethra into bladder and instilling a contrast material.What is a Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG)?
This test is done to diagnosis vesicoureteral reflux, ureteral and bladder wall abnormalities. This procedure involves insertion of a catheter into the bladder through the urethra. The bladder is then filled with contrast material while x-ray images are taken. The catheter is then removed and the patient voids. X-ray images are taken during and at the end of voiding. Most children 0-18 months do not need sedation. Children 18 months and older may benefit from the use of sedation to decrease anxiety and discomfort. The sedation medication is called Versed and is generally given orally.
PEDIATRIC RENAL SCANS
What is a MAG3 with lasix and foley?
This test is designed to evaluate the function of the kidneys and to assess for ureteral obstruction. A urinary catheter and an IV are placed. A tracer called MAG3 is injected into the IV. This tracer contains a small amount of radioactivity which allows us to image it as it passes through the kidneys. Images are taken from a special camera located under the table. A medication called Lasix will be administered during the scan. The Lasix will cause you to produce more urine for a short period of time and allows us to see how fast the tracer washes out of the kidneys. Sedation may also be used for children 18 months and older.What is a DMSA?
This test is designed to evaluate the structure of the kidneys and to assess for renal scarring. A radioisotope is injected into a vein. Images are obtained 1-3 hours after the injection. You will be required to hold still for a set of three pictures each of which are 10 minutes long.
PROCEDURES
What is a cystoscopy?
An Endoscopic examination of the urethra and bladder using a small telescope inserted through the urethra. This test is typically performed as an office procedure. No prep is necessary.What is a Trus Biopsy?
A transrectal examination of the prostate using ultrasound. Small samples of prostatic tissue are removed and sent to a laboratory for pathologic examination. This procedure is typically done in an office setting with the following prep.
Download Needle Biopsy Prep SheetWhat is a PSA?
Prostate Specific Antigen. A chemical produced by both benign and cancerous prostate tissue, tending to be higher in men with prostate cancer.What is a nephrostomy tube?
A drain placed into the kidney under fluoroscopy to relieve an obstruction. This diverts the urine from the obstructed kidney to a bag on the outside of your body. This procedure is either done in the operating room or by a radiologist in the hospital.
If you have an urgent medical issue, please call 911. Our intent is to provide general information only.