Renogram

A renogram is a test used to assess function in the kidneys. Special pictures are taken after a medicine is injected into a vein. The medicine is called a radiopharmaceutical (a tiny amount of a radioactive liquid). The pictu​res show the medicine in the kidneys.

Preparing for the T​​est

Before coming to the hospital, read this explanation and​ explain to your child what will happen during the test. For young children, use simple words and explain only shortly before the test.

• There are no eating or drinking restrictions for this test.
• Bring along a bottle of formula or juice with you for after the test if your child is an infant
• Bring a pacifier, blanket or special toy to help calm your baby
• Bring a book, toy or DVD for older children to play with while waiting
• Bring another caregiver for your child's siblings.
• Bring a stroller for young children and babies

During the Reno​gram

A technologist will place a small needle called an IV into a vein in your child's hand or foot. The needle hurts for just a moment. Then, a technologist will place a catheter into your child's bladder. It is possible that your child may experience some discomfort during insertion of the catheter. Please tell the doctor, nurse or technologist if pain occurs.

Next, the child will lie on a soft table, and the technologist will inject the medicine into the IV to see the kidneys and begin taking pictures. Your child may need a safety belt to help lie still. The pictures will be taken for one hour. During this time, they may watch a DVD or take a bottle; the camera will not hurt or touch your child. During the pictures, they may be given a diuretic to help the medicine empty from the kidneys. You will be able to stay with them during the entire test.

It is possible that during the procedure your child may experience some discomfort. Please tell the doctor, nurse or technologist if pain occurs.

After the T​est

 The child eliminates the medicine from their body by urinating. They should drink plenty of fluids and urinate often to help clear it from their body. It should be completely out of their body within 24 hours.

As always, you and your child should wash your hands after they urinate or when handling urine-soaked diapers or sheets.

After the test, your child may return to regular daily activities and meals. Results of the test will be available to your child's doctor within 24 hours.

Technology & Sca​nners

The pictures will be taken by a Siemens ECam. The open gantry design and feet-in imaging helps your child to feel more comfortable and allows him to watch a movie. The camera has two detectors, one which will be above your child and one which will be under them during the pictures.