X-RAY RGU AND MCU

• Dual imaging in one visit – RGU shows the urethra while MCU captures the bladder in action.
• Latest digital fluoroscopy minimizes radiation exposure.
• Dedicated pediatric room with distraction tools and trained technicians.
• Results within 2 hours for walk-ins; priority slots for pre-surgical cases.

What is X-Ray RGU and MCU?

Definitions

• Retrograde Urethrogram (RGU): Contrast dye is gently pushed backward through the urethra to outline its walls and look for narrowing or leaks.
• Micturating Cystourethrogram (MCU): The bladder is filled, then X-rays are taken while you urinate to check for reflux or abnormal flow.

How Contrast Dye Reveals the Urinary Tract

A water-soluble iodinated dye coats the lining, making even tiny strictures or reflux jets light up clearly on the screen.

Types of X-Ray RGU and MCU

• Standard iodinated contrast for most adults.
• Pediatric low-dose protocol with weight-based contrast volume and faster frame rates.

• Urethral caliber and length
• Bladder capacity and contour
• Presence, grade, and timing of reflux
• Any filling defects, fistulas, or diverticula

• Recurrent UTIs with no clear cause
• Suspected urethral stricture or fistula
• Pre-surgical mapping before prostate, bladder, or hypospadias repair

Common Symptoms That Prompt the Test

• Burning urine or repeated infections
• Poor urine stream or dribbling
• Blood in urine or post-surgery follow-up

Pediatric vs. Adult Indications

• Children: Suspected vesico-ureteral reflux, bed-wetting, or urinary tract infection (UTI) work-up.
• Adults: Stricture evaluation, prostate surgery planning, or trauma assessment.

Benefits of Taking the X-Ray RGU and MCU

• Precise anatomical mapping guides surgeons and avoids unnecessary scopes.
• Real-time function testing shows how the bladder empties, aiding therapy choices.

Illnesses Diagnosed with X-Ray RGU and MCU

• Urethral strictures
• Vesicoureteral reflux
• Neurogenic bladder
• Bladder diverticula, stones, or fistulas

• Diet: Light meal 4 h before; clear fluids up to 1 h prior.
• Medications: Hold diuretics on the morning of the test.
• Hydration: Drink 500 ml water on waking to keep kidneys active.

Pre-requisites X-Ray RGU and MCU

• Recent urine culture (< 7 days) to rule out active infection.
• Pregnancy screening for females of child-bearing age (serum β-hCG on day of test).

Best Time to Take the X-Ray RGU and MCU

• Morning slots: Easier fasting and faster post-procedure recovery.
• Women: Schedule 3–10 days after periods start to avoid early pregnancy concerns.

Eligibility

• Minimum age: Newborn (with neonatal protocol).
• Contraindications: Active UTI, known anaphylaxis to iodine, or pregnancy.

Procedure for Taking an X-Ray RGU and MCU

1. Check-in: Consent form and allergy review.
2. Positioning: Lie on the X-ray table; groin area cleaned.
3. Catheter: A soft feeding tube is inserted; contrast is dripped in for RGU.
4. Bladder filling: Tube is clamped, then unclamped for MCU while you void.
5. Images captured: Instant digital X-rays at every phase; total time 20–30 min.

Caution Before Taking the Test

• Inform staff about asthma, shellfish allergy, or previous contrast reaction.
• Remove belts, zippers, and jewellery from the waist down.