Overview
Diuretic renography provides a noninvasive method to distinguish collecting system dilation due to a true obstruction from the secondary to an atonic, but patent collecting system.
Indications
- Distinguish between obstructive hydronephrosis and nonobstructive dilation due to vesicoureteral reflux.
- Evaluate obstruction of the ureteropelvic junction.
- Urinary tract infections.
- Congenital malformations.
- Evaluation if there has been a previous renal collecting system obstruction.
- Evaluation of noncompliant bladder.
Study Description
The patient is positioned on the imaging table with the camera detector adjusted to image from the posterior projection. An IV will be started and the radiopharmaceutical will be administered. A dynamic study (a rapid series of short duration images) will immediately be acquired to assess the blood flow to the kidney(s). Following this a series of dynamic (continuous) images will be taken immediately for 40 minutes. Half way into the images an injection of Lasix (Furosemide) will be administered intravenously and imaging will continue.
Examination Time
- 1 hour
Patient Preparation
- Ensure the patient is not pregnant or breastfeeding
- The patient should be well hydrated prior to the exam
- The patient should be off diuretics the night before the exam
- The patient should void before beginning the study