A Retrograde urethrogram (RGU) is a fluoroscopy test of the urethra. It shows urethral narrowing or injury. Typical effective dose 0.5 to 1 mSv, similar to about 2 to 4 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
A Retrograde urethrogram (RGU) is a medical imaging test that uses fluoroscopy to examine the urethra. It helps identify narrowing or injuries in the urethra. The typical effective dose for this test is between 0.5 to 1 mSv, which is similar to about 2 to 4 months of natural background radiation. The test shows urethral narrowing or injury. It is usually done when there's a poor urine stream or a pelvic injury. Preparation for the test depends on the study, and it's important to tell the staff if you are pregnant. The typical effective dose is 0.5 to 1 mSv, similar to about 2 to 4 months of natural background radiation, with a benefit that usually outweighs the small risk. The test takes about 30 minutes. It's important to interpret the results by a qualified health worker.
Urethral narrowing or injury.
Poor urine stream, pelvic injury.
Preparation depends on the study (fasting or bowel preparation). Tell staff if pregnant.
Typical effective dose 0.5 to 1 mSv, similar to about 2 to 4 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
30 minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
Fluoroscopy
Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.
Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.
What does a rgu show?
Urethral narrowing or injury.
Why is a rgu done?
Poor urine stream, pelvic injury.
How do I prepare for a rgu?
Preparation depends on the study (fasting or bowel preparation). Tell staff if pregnant.
Does a rgu use radiation?
Typical effective dose 0.5 to 1 mSv, similar to about 2 to 4 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
How long does a rgu take?
30 minutes
Why is Retrograde urethrogram (RGU) done?
Poor urine stream, pelvic injury.
How do I prepare for Retrograde urethrogram (RGU)?
Preparation depends on the study (fasting or bowel preparation). Tell staff if pregnant.
Is Retrograde urethrogram (RGU) safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 0.5 to 1 mSv, similar to about 2 to 4 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.