What to Expect During Your Child’s Exam

Knowing what will happen during the VCUG test can help you and your child feel more at ease.

During a pediatric VCUG exam:

• Your child will lie on an X-ray table.
• A small, flexible catheter is gently placed into the urethra so contrast liquid can flow into the bladder. This helps your child’s care team see the bladder clearly.
• As the bladder fills, we take images using a special X-ray called fluoroscopy.
• When your child urinates, we take more images to see how urine flows out of the bladder.
• When the test is finished, the catheter is removed right away.

Most children, including infants, tolerate the procedure very well. A child life specialist can be with you to offer comfort, distraction and support. You will be able to stay close to your child throughout the exam.

Meet Your Child’s Care Team

You and your child will be supported by a dedicated pediatric radiology team that understands how to care for infants, toddlers, school-aged children and teens during imaging procedures.

Your team may include:

• Pediatric radiologist: They review and interpret your child’s X-ray images.
• Radiologic technologist: They perform the VCUG exam and operate the imaging equipment.
• Pediatric nurses: They help you prepare your child, answer questions and provide care during the procedure, including inserting the catheter.
• Child life specialists: They help your child cope through play, explanation and comfort strategies.

Each member of your team is focused on keeping your child safe, calm, supported and keeping you informed throughout the VCUG procedure.

Preparing for Your Child’s VCUG Test

A little preparation can help your child feel more comfortable and confident on the day of their VCUG exam.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Plan to arrive 30 minutes early so you have plenty of time to check in and settle your child.
• Bring comfort items such as a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, pacifier, bottle or toy. These can help soothe and distract your child.
• Dress your child in comfortable, loose clothing without metal snaps, zippers, buttons, sequins or glitter. Metal can interfere with the images.
• Talk to your child beforehand in simple, reassuring language about what will happen. Our child life team can guide you if you’re unsure how to talk about the VCUG test.
• Share any medical concerns with us before the exam, including allergies, recent infections or anxiety about medical procedures.

If you’re unsure whether your child needs antibiotics before the VCUG or if you have questions about urinary tract infections, your child’s pediatrician can help guide you.

Contact us for Additional Voiding Cystourethrogram Information

If you think your child may need a VCUG but don’t have an appointment

Talk with your child’s primary care provider or specialist. They can help decide if a VCUG test is needed and send a referral to our pediatric radiology team.

If your child already has a scheduled VCUG appointment

Please contact our departments directly with any questions about preparation, the exam day or what to expect:

• Fluoroscopy department: (309) 655-3227
  Call if you have questions about your child’s appointment, medical instructions or what will happen during the VCUG exam.
• Child life services: (309) 624-0225
  Call for support in preparing your child emotionally, managing fears or using comfort strategies during the procedure.

If you are a referring provider

For questions about scheduling, imaging needs or sending referrals, please contact the fluoroscopy department at (309) 655-3227.