Procedures and Diagnostic Tests Related to the Urinary System

- Procedures and Diagnostic Tests Related to the Urinary System (continued) Procedure/Test Description Cystography The process of instilling a contrast material or dye into the bladder by catheter to visualize the urinary bladder. Cystoscopy Visual examination of the urinary bladder using a cystoscope. The patient may receive general or local anesthesia for this procedure, Dialysis The artificial filtration of waste material from the blood. It is used when the kidneys fail to function. Excretory Urography Injection of dye into the bloodstream followed by an X—ray, which traces the action of the kidney as it excretes the dye. Extracorporeal Shockwave Use of ultrasound waves to break up kidney stones. Process does not require invasive surgew. Lithotripsy (ESWL) Hemodialysis Use of an artificial kidney that filters a person’s blood to remove waste products. Use of this technique in patients who have defective kidneys is lifesaving.