American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT) Practice Exam

Which imaging technique is most helpful in demonstrating suspected vesicoureteral reflux?

1. Intravenous urogram

2. Cystogram

3. Voiding cystourethrogram

4. Retrograde urogram

The correct answer is: Voiding cystourethrogram

The most effective imaging technique for demonstrating suspected vesicoureteral reflux is the voiding cystourethrogram. This procedure specifically visualizes the bladder and the urethra while the patient voids, allowing for the assessment of the bladder's function and potential abnormalities in the urinary tract. During the test, a contrast material is introduced into the bladder via a catheter, and imaging is performed while the bladder fills and empties. This dynamic assessment is crucial for identifying the reflux of urine from the bladder back into the ureters, a condition commonly associated with urinary tract infections in children. The other imaging techniques serve different purposes. An intravenous urogram involves injecting contrast into the bloodstream and imaging the kidneys and urinary tract but does not specifically assess bladder function during voiding. A cystogram can visualize the bladder, but without the dynamic element of voiding, it is less effective for evaluating reflux. A retrograde urogram is typically focused on the ureters and kidneys by introducing contrast in the opposite direction through the urethra, making it unsuitable for evaluating bladder dynamics related to reflux.