General

Synonym/Acronym:
voiding cystourethrography (VCU), voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), micturating cystourethrogram (MCUG).

Rationale
To visualize and assess the bladder during voiding for evaluation of chronic urinary tract infections.

Patient Preparation
There are no food, fluid, activity, or medication restrictions unless by medical direction. The patient may be instructed to increase fluid intake the day before the test and to have only clear fluids 8 hr before the test.

Regarding the patient’s risk for bleeding, the patient should be instructed to avoid taking natural products and medications with known anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or thrombolytic properties or to reduce dosage, as ordered, prior to the procedure. Number of days to withhold medication is dependent on the type of anticoagulant. Note the last time and dose of medication taken. Protocols may vary among facilities.

Normal Findings

• Normal bladder and urethra structure and function.

Critical Findings and Potential Interventions
N/A