A urogram is a radiograph, or X-ray image, of the urinary tract. The process of obtaining a urogram is known as urography. Urograms are utilized in diagnostic testing for various conditions related to the urinary tract, and they are also used to follow up on treatment for conditions like kidney stones and cancers of the urinary tract. As a general rule, urography is an outpatient procedure.

When patients arrive at the X-ray department for a urography procedure, they are injected with a contrast medium which will help define the structures of the urinary tract on X-ray. Usually it takes at least half an hour for the contrast medium to take effect, and the patient may feel slightly hot as the dye makes its way down to the kidneys. Next, the patient is x-rayed, and the resulting urogram is interpreted by a radiologist, pathologist, or urologist.

Some people have allergic reactions to the contrast medium, and patients may be asked to stay for a brief period of time after the procedure to ensure that if an allergic reaction does occur, treatment can be offered promptly. The contrast medium can also cause the urine to look a bit peculiar for a day or so, which is something to be aware of when urinating after a urography procedure.

In addition to using X-rays for urograms, it is also possible to use Computed Tomography (CT) machines. A CT urogram is often of better quality than one produced with X-ray, and it also reduces exposure to radiation for the patient. Not all hospitals offer this option, and it can be more expensive than a traditional X-ray urogram.

Urograms can reveal blockages such as kidney stones, congenital abnormalities in the urinary tract, and cancers of the urinary tract. If something unexpected or abnormal is identified, the patient may need follow up tests such as biopsies to determine the nature of condition, and to decide what the next step should be. After treatment for conditions like kidney stones, it is common to request a urogram to ensure that the all of the stones have passed.

When a urogram is requested, patients should plan to set aside at least an hour and a half of time for the procedure. As a general rule, people are perfectly capable of driving or walking afterwards, so no escort is necessary. It can take several days to weeks to get results from a urogram, especially in a small facility where the urogram may need to be sent out for interpretation. The doctor who ordered the test will usually call as soon as the results are in to discuss them with you.