XRAY MCU

What the scan reveals

• Bladder shape and capacity
• Urethral width and length
• Back-flow of urine (reflux)
• Structural defects or blockages

Why Cadabams Diagnostics

• Digital fluoroscopy reduces radiation by up to 30 %.
• Child-life specialists keep kids calm.
• Same-day reporting for urgent cases.
• ISO-certified lab with 25+ years of imaging excellence.

What is XRAY MCU?

Definition in plain terms

An XRAY MCU (Micturating Cystourethrogram) is a special X-ray that takes moving pictures while you urinate. A thin tube fills the bladder with a harmless contrast dye; then X-rays capture the flow to spot any leaks or narrow passages.

Difference from standard X-ray

Types of XRAY MCU

Pediatric MCU protocol

• Smaller catheter size (6 Fr).
• Entertainment goggles to distract.
• Parent present throughout.

Adult MCU modifications

• Larger catheter (12–14 Fr).
• Privacy screen for comfort.
• Standing or sitting as preferred.

• Bladder capacity measurements (expected vs actual)
• Urethral width & reflux grading (Grade I–V)
• Residual urine volume post-void
• Diverticula size and location

• Investigating UTI recurrence—find hidden reflux.
• Pre-surgical planning—map strictures before repair.
• Monitoring post-surgery success—check for leaks.

Common symptoms prompting the test

• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Bed-wetting beyond age 5
• Painful or weak urine stream
• Blood in urine
• Suspected birth defects in newborns

Age groups: adults vs children

• Children: Often ordered after two febrile UTIs.
• Adults: Usually before prostate or bladder surgery.

Benefits of Taking the XRAY MCU

• Pinpoints structural defects missed on ultrasound.
• Guides treatment decisions—antibiotic vs surgery.
• Prevents kidney damage by early reflux detection.

Illnesses Diagnosed with XRAY MCU

• Vesicoureteral reflux—urine flows backward to kidneys.
• Urethral stricture—narrowing slowing the stream.
• Bladder diverticula—pouches causing urine pooling.

Fasting & hydration instructions

• Adults: Light meal 2 h prior; drink 500 ml water.
• Children: Clear fluids till 1 h before.

Sedation options for children

• Oral midazolam syrup for anxiety.
• No general anesthesia needed in most cases.

Pre-requisites XRAY MCU

• Recent urine culture report (within 7 days).
• Creatinine level check to ensure kidney function.
• Signed consent form for contrast use.

Best Time to Take the XRAY MCU

• Menstrual cycle considerations: Schedule after day 5 to reduce infection risk.
• Avoiding acute infection periods: Wait 2 weeks after UTI clears.

Eligibility

Who can undergo the test

• Any age above 1 month.
• Stable vital signs.

Contra-indications

• Active UTI with fever.
• Known severe contrast allergy.
• First trimester pregnancy.

Procedure for Taking a XRAY MCU

1. Change into gown, empty bladder.
2. Insert catheter—numbing gel used.
3. Fill bladder slowly with contrast.
4. X-ray capture while you void on a special seat.
5. Remove catheter, final images taken.
   Duration: 20–30 minutes.
   Comfort measures: Warm blanket, music on request.

Caution Before Taking the Test

• Inform about pregnancy—test postponed if positive.
• Medication adjustments: Hold metformin 48 h prior.