What is a Micturating Cystogram?
A micturating cystogram is an x-ray investigation to look at your child’s bladder and urethra (the passage between the bladder and the external part of the body through which urine is passed).
A micturating cystogram is usually carried out to see if there are any abnormalities in the bladder or urethra that might be causing recurrent urinary infections.
Your child will have been prescribed antibiotics by his/her paediatrician. This investigation cannot be done if your child isn’t taking the antibiotics. If your child is not currently taking antibiotics, please contact your paediatrician/GP for a prescription.
Please ensure you have enough antibiotics for after the procedure as well.
Who performs your investigation?
A children’s radiologist will carry out this investigation assisted by a radiographer.
Children’s radiologists are doctors specially trained to interpret the images and carry out more complex examinations in children. They are supported by radiographers who are highly trained to carry out x-rays and other imaging procedures.
Are you required to make any special preparation?
There is no further preparation apart from the antibiotics.
What does the investigation involve?
Once you and your child have arrived in the x-ray department the investigation will be explained to you, and you will help your child change into an x-ray gown.
You and your child will then be taken into the x-ray room, and you will stay with your child throughout the procedure.
Your child will be asked to lie on the x-ray bed and the radiologist will insert a small plastic tube into the bladder through the urethra (the pipe through which urine passes out).
The radiologist will then pass some x-ray dye (contrast) through the tube and into your child’s bladder. Once your child’s bladder is full, they will start to wee and the radiologist will take x-ray images at this stage. Your child will be moved into different positions whilst on the x-ray table to get the best possible x-ray images.
You will be asked to wear a lead coat throughout the procedure to protect yourself from the x-rays. If there is any possibility of you being pregnant you need to inform the radiology staff in the room with you.
This examination does involve using a small amount of radiation. This dose is kept to a minimum to reduce the risks to yourself.
The investigation does not hurt, however your child may cry during the procedure. Please bring any toys/comforter that will help keep your child comfortable.
After the investigation the radiologist will remove the plastic tube from your child’s bladder, and you will be able to go home.
You may ask questions at any time during the investigation.
How long does the investigation take?
The investigation takes about 30 minutes.
Are there any risks to the investigation?
Your child will be exposed to x-rays (ionising radiation) but this will be minimal. We are all exposed to ionising radiation every day and particularly when flying on aeroplanes.
There is a risk of introducing infection into the bladder when placing the plastic tube. Your child’s genital area will be cleaned before placing the tube to minimise the risk of infection.
Bleeding may occur following removal of the tube and you may see mild traces of blood in your child’s urine.
What to bring with you
If your child wears nappies, please bring a spare nappy with you.
How do you get the results of your investigation?
The results of the investigation will be sent to the consultant that referred you for the investigation.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your investigation, please contact the radiology booking centre on 0161 778 2233.
Date of Review: January 2026
Date of Next Review: January 2028
Ref No: PI_DS_972 (Oldham)