Retrograde Urethrography

A Retrograde Urethrography is an X-ray examination in which the urethra is made visible using a contrast fluid. This examination is mainly performed to identify irregularities and the patency of the urethra.

Course

Before the examination

A Retrograde Urethrography is only done by appointment and on the basis of a medical prescription. Please note that the investigation may start later than planned due to unforeseen circumstances.

To register, go directly to the Medical Imaging desk with your identity card and medical prescription. You should take with you images and/or access codes from relevant previous studies that were conducted elsewhere.

The medical imager (technologist) will come and pick you up from the waiting area and tell you what will happen. You will be asked to take off your jewelry and put on an examination gown to protect your clothing (aprons are available).

During the examination

During the examination, you will lie on the examination table. There is a device above the examination table that takes the images. The medical imager (technologist) places a cloth under the penis so that he can work as cleanly as possible. The penis is cleaned with a disinfectant liquid.

The medical imager then slides a sterile instrument over the penis and a conical attachment is inserted approximately two centimeters into the urethra. If this is impossible, a thin tube (catheter) will be inserted a few centimeters into the urethra. This is annoying but not painful. Once the conical attachment or catheter is properly positioned in the urethra, the medical imager fills it with contrast fluid and the radiologist takes the photos. The contrast agent ensures that the urethra is clearly visualized in the images taken.

To be able to photograph the urethra from all sides, you will be asked several times to lie in a different position. After taking the photos, the medical imager will remove the sterile instrumentation with conical attachment or the catheter.

No specific preparation is required and you do not need to be fasting.

The examination takes approximately 20 minutes.

After investigation

After the examination, it is important to drink plenty of water to prevent a bladder infection.

The radiologist makes a report of the examination. You will receive a code with which the images and the radiologic report can be viewed by yourself and the requesting doctor. The referring physician will discuss the results with you.