THEurethrocystography, also called retrograde urethrocystography and voiding, is an x-ray that allows you to visualize the bladder (cysto-) and theurethra (urethro-), which is the channel that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.

It is based on the introduction of a substance opaque to X-rays into the bladder, which allows better visualization.

This technique is used in a variety of situations, including:

• to find the existence of a reflux vésico-urétéral, that is to say a permanent or intermittent rise of urine from the bladder to the kidneys. It is a frequently performed examination in children.
• a cas de difficulty urinating (for example related to an enlarged prostate in men)
• to explore the narrowings (strictures) urethra or after trauma to the urethra
• to highlight a abnormal bladder morphology or a obstruction to the emptying of the bladder.

A few days before the operation, a culture d’urine (ECBU) will be performed to ensure that there is nourinary tract infection.

No special preparation is necessary, but you must urinate before the exam, which lasts approximately 45 minutes.

The medical staff begin by placing a urinary catheter, after having cleaned the urinary meatus. Once the patient is lying on the imaging table, the opaque product (based on iodine) is introduced through the probe to “color” the bladder. A feeling of irritation or burning may be noted.

X-rays of the urethra and bladder are taken while the bladder is being filled, until the patient feels a need to urinate. This is the so-called “retrograde” phase of the examination.

Then comes the second phase, called “voiding”. The patient is asked to urinate into a container (while remaining on the imaging table), and successive x-rays are taken.

During the examination, you may be asked to change your position for certain shots (on your side, on your back, standing obliquely at 30 °, etc.).

After the urethrocystography, it is recommended to drink plenty of water to reduce the burning sensation during urination. Feeling uncomfortable passing urine or having a few drops of blood in the urine is normal immediately after the test, but should be reported to the doctor if it persists for several days.

Depending on the results of the x-ray, the urologist will direct you to appropriate treatment.

If you have a reflux vésico-urétéral, surgical treatment could for example be considered.