Information for Patients having a Cystogram 

What is a cystogram? 

This is an examination that will allow us to examine your bladder using a special x-ray dye, which is recorded in real time using x-rays. The examination shows the appearance of the bladder and how it fills; it allows us to look for normal or abnormal appearances. The x-ray dye is used to fill the bladder and shows up on the images. You will already have a catheter in situ before you require this procedure. This would have been inserted by the team that has requested the procedure. 

How is this examination done? 

You will be asked by the radiographer to change into a hospital gown. The radiographer will check your details to ensure you are the correct person and are having the correct examination.   

If you are aged between 10 and 55 you will be asked to confirm your gender and if there is a chance of pregnancy.  

You will be expected to lie on your back for this procedure with the x-ray tube positioned above your pelvic area. Your urinary catheter bag will be disconnected, and x-ray contrast will be passed into the bladder through the catheter that is already in place. Once the doctor is happy that your bladder is full x-ray pictures are then taken, and the doctor may ask you to roll onto your side. 

The pictures are checked, and the x-ray dye is drained out of your bladder before reconnecting your catheter.  

Is there any preparation?  

There is no preparation for the examination so please continue to take your normal medications. 

Who will I meet?  

Radiologist (a doctor who specialises in x-rays) 

Radiographer  

Student  

How long does it take?  

The examination can take up to 20 minutes, time will vary for each patient. 

After your examination? 

We advise that you drink plenty of fluids after the examination to flush through your bladder. 

How do I get the results?  

Your results will go back to the clinician who sent you for this examination. 

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any questions or are worried about anything, please speak to the following Dorset County Hospital staff: 

Appointments team: 01305 254428 

About this leaflet

Author: Jeanette Bartlett, Lead Interventional/Fluoro Radiographer
Written: February 2025 
Approved: July 2025 
Review date: July 2028 
Edition: v3 

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk