What Is Micturating Cysto Urethrogram?
A Micturating Cysto Urethrogram (MCU), also known as a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the structure and function of the urinary bladder and the urethra. It is primarily performed on children but can also be done on adults.
During an MCU, a contrast agent (a substance visible on X-ray) is inserted into the bladder through a catheter. The contrast agent helps visualize the urinary tract on X-ray images. The patient is typically positioned under an X-ray machine, and X-ray images are taken at various stages of the procedure.
Indication Of Micturating Cysto Urethrogram
– Vesicoureteric reflex.
– Traumatic urethra
– Suspected urethral diverticula.
– Suspected urethral stricture.
– Suspected urethral obstruction.
– Difficulty to passing urine.
– Urine dribbling.
– Hematuria
Contraindications
– UTI
– Suspected pregnancy.
– Any allergy reaction history.
Equipment.
– Fluoroscopy unit / X-ray unit.
– Foley’s catheter
– local anesthesia
– Antiseptic solution.
– Syringe
– Gloves
– Gauge piece.
– Saline.
Contrast media.
– Water soluble non-ionic contrast used (Uroscane 76%) which dilated with normal saline in 1: 3 ratio.
Patient preparation.
– Specially no patient preparation needed.
– The patient micturate prior to the examination.
– If the patient is child , sedation is necessary than NPO for 6 hrs needed.
Procedure/ technique.
– On the examination day, whole procedure are explain to the patient.
– Ask to the remove all clothes and wear hospital gown.
– The patient in supine position in the x-ray or Fluoroscopy table.
– The top of penis is cleaned with antiseptic solution.
– The catheter(5F to 8F) should be lubricant with an anesthetic jelly and inserted slowly and gently into urethra holding the penis in vertical position.
– The diluted contrast injected in bladder until the bladder is dilated.
– After filling the bladder the catheter is removed the patient is placed in oblique position for urination.
– When the patient is during urination take film.
Filming.
Mainly Two films are taken during urination, one is RPO and LPO.
Complications.
– Urinary tract infection.
– Urethral trauma.
– Pain during insertion of catheter.
– Hematuria
– Dysuria.
Aftercare.
– To ask the patient for dysuria.
FAQs.
Q. What is a Micturating Cysto Urethrogram (MCU)?
A Micturating Cysto Urethrogram (MCU) is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the structure and function of the urinary bladder and urethra.
Q. Why is an MCU performed?
An MCU is performed to evaluate conditions such as urinary reflux, recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder dysfunction, and structural abnormalities in the urinary system.
Q. How is an MCU performed?
During an MCU, a contrast agent is inserted into the bladder through a catheter, and X-ray images are taken while the bladder is filled and during urination.
Q. Is an MCU painful?
The procedure may cause some discomfort or minor irritation during catheterization or bladder filling, but it is generally well-tolerated.
Q. How long does an MCU take?
The procedure typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
Q. Can children undergo an MCU?
Yes, an MCU is commonly performed on children to evaluate urinary abnormalities.
Q. Is anesthesia required for an MCU?
Anesthesia is not typically required for an MCU unless the patient is very young or unable to cooperate.
Q. Are there any risks associated with an MCU?
The procedure is generally safe, but there is a slight risk of infection, allergic reactions to the contrast agent, or injury during catheter insertion.
Q. How should I prepare for an MCU?
Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions, but typically, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking before the procedure and to empty your bladder beforehand.
Q. Can I drive myself home after an MCU?
It is generally safe to drive yourself home after an MCU, as there are no significant effects on your ability to drive.
Q. When will I receive the results of the MCU?
The radiologist will interpret the images and provide a report to your referring physician, who will discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment.
Q. Are there any alternative tests to an MCU?
Other imaging tests, such as ultrasound or a computed tomography (CT) scan, may provide similar information, but an MCU is specifically designed to evaluate bladder and urethral function.
Q. Can an MCU detect all urinary abnormalities?
An MCU can detect many urinary abnormalities, but some conditions may require additional tests or procedures for a comprehensive evaluation.
Q. Can an MCU diagnose bladder cancer?
While an MCU can identify some bladder abnormalities, it is not the primary test for diagnosing bladder cancer. Other tests, such as cystoscopy or a biopsy, are typically used for definitive diagnosis.
Q. Can an MCU be performed on pregnant women?
MCU is generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as the exposure to radiation may pose risks to the developing fetus.
Q. Can an MCU be performed on individuals with allergies?
It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies, particularly to iodine or contrast agents, before undergoing an MCU.
Q. Can an MCU diagnose kidney stones?
An MCU focuses on the bladder and urethra, so it is not the primary test for diagnosing kidney stones. Other imaging tests, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, are more suitable for evaluating kidney stones.
Q. Can an MCU be performed on individuals with a urinary tract infection?
An MCU is generally not performed during an active urinary tract infection due to the risk of exacerbating the infection. It is typically rescheduled once the infection has cleared.
Q. Can an MCU be painful for children?
The discomfort experienced during an MCU may vary among individuals, but healthcare providers take measures to minimize any discomfort or pain, especially in children.
Q. Can I resume my normal activities after an MCU?
Unless instructed otherwise, you can usually resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure.
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