Test Details & Preparation

A Retrograde Urethrogram is an X-ray examination of the urethra for men, which cannot be seen on a normal X-ray. The urethra is the tube which carries urine from the bladder to outside the body.

A clear fluid or X-ray dye is used to outline the urethra so that it may be examined using X-rays.

You will be asked to undress and put on a hospital gown. A small plastic tube called a catheter is inserted into the tip of the penis and a small balloon may be inflated to keep the catheter in position. The x-ray dye is then introduced into the urethra and you may be asked to lie in different positions to demonstrate the urethra fully. Occasionally, depending on what your doctor is investigating, we may fill your bladder up, using the catheter and obtain further images during voiding. The examination should be complete in approximately 30 minutes.

This procedure will help us make the correct diagnosis so you will be able to be given the correct treatment.