What is the purpose of a voiding cystogram?

What is the purpose of a voiding cystogram?

• A. To assess kidney size
• B. To take a series of X-rays while voiding to identify reflux
• C. To measure bladder pressure
• D. To evaluate bladder capacity

Answer: (B)

The purpose of a voiding cystogram is to take a series of X-rays while the patient is voiding, which helps in identifying any abnormalities such as vesicoureteral reflux. This imaging technique allows healthcare professionals to observe how urine flows from the bladder and through the urethra, revealing any issues with the urinary tract. The test is particularly useful in evaluating the effectiveness of the bladder and the function of the ureters, as it captures real-time imaging during the act of urination. While other options might seem relevant to urinary assessments, they do not describe the specific purpose of a voiding cystogram. For instance, assessing kidney size is typically done through different imaging techniques such as renal ultrasounds or CT scans, measuring bladder pressure is more related to urodynamic studies, and evaluating bladder capacity may involve filling the bladder with a fluid and then measuring how much it can hold rather than observing the voiding process itself.

The purpose of a voiding cystogram is to take a series of X-rays while the patient is voiding, which helps in identifying any abnormalities such as vesicoureteral reflux. This imaging technique allows healthcare professionals to observe how urine flows from the bladder and through the urethra, revealing any issues with the urinary tract. The test is particularly useful in evaluating the effectiveness of the bladder and the function of the ureters, as it captures real-time imaging during the act of urination.

While other options might seem relevant to urinary assessments, they do not describe the specific purpose of a voiding cystogram. For instance, assessing kidney size is typically done through different imaging techniques such as renal ultrasounds or CT scans, measuring bladder pressure is more related to urodynamic studies, and evaluating bladder capacity may involve filling the bladder with a fluid and then measuring how much it can hold rather than observing the voiding process itself.