THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A DISTENDED BLADDER IN THE INTERPRETATION OF INTRAVENOUS PYELOGRAMS OBTAINED ON PATIENTS WITH "HYDRONEPHROSIS"

Abstract

1. Ureteral dilatation and altered peristalsis may be seen on intravenous pyelograms (IVP) obtained without prior bladder emptying. 2. The resultant "hydronephrosis" can rapidly disappear when the IVP is obtained following bladder emptying. 3. Associated vesicoureteral reflux in such patients further influences the IVP findings in terms of ureteral caliber and degree and timing of visualization. 4. This "bladder" effect must be appreciated in planning therapy for patients with urinary tract infection, reflux, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, "infrequent voider syndrome," etc. 5. The findings are equally applicable to adults with urinary retention and "hydronephrosis" accompanying prostatic enlargement.