Vesicoureteral Reflux Program

Tests and procedures

A catheter test, called voiding cysto-urethrogram (VCUG) is done to accurately diagnose vesicoureteral reflux. This test will usually take 15 to 45 minutes. Sometimes it may last longer, if your child does not void (urinate).

A radionuclide cystogram (RNC) - during which the bladder is filled with a dye that will demonstrate urine regurgitating up into the kidney. This test will usually take 15 to 45 minutes. Sometimes it may last longer, if your child does not void (urinate).

Genetic pre-disposition for having VUR - parents' offspring are also at risk for VUR. Therefore, prior to birth, an ultrasound can be done on the mother, to see if there is any swelling of the fetus' kidneys. It is shown that 10 to 20 percent of children with prenatal hydronephrosis do have VUR. Additionally, siblings of children with VUR have a 30 percent chance of having it, so screening of siblings is recommended.

After a urinary tract infection (UTI) - using a urinalysis and a urine culture, VUR is often diagnosed, as a result of a UTI.