Urodynamic Study of the Bladder
Urodynamic study helps to assess the bladder and urethra function in storing and releasing urine. The results help doctors explain the cause for symptoms such as:
- incontinence (urine leakage)
- increased frequency in urination
- frequent and sudden urges to urinate but no urine comes out
- difficulty in starting to pee
- painful urination
- difficulty emptying the bladder completely
- recurrent urinary tract infections
Image from WebMD
What sort of scenarios may require the test?
- Unexplained recurrent urinary tract infection
- Incontinence after delivery or operations
- Spinal cord injury
- Overactive or underactive bladder
- Parkinson’s disease
Click to view Boston Medical Centre video on Understanding Urodynamics
What does the test involve?
A urodynamic study consists of a range of tests to assess the function of the lower urinary tract. It usually takes between 30-60 minutes and does not require any anaesthetic or sedation. It involves the insertion of a catheter into the bladder to record some or all of the following measurements to help your doctor find the cause of your specific problem.
- Post-void residual urine volume (residual volume > 100 ml suggest incomplete emptying)
- Uroflowmetry (measurement for speed of urine flow)
- Cystometry (measurement of bladder wall contraction)
- Electromyography (measurement of electrical activity at the bladder neck)
- Urine microscopy and culture (to check for infection)
Urinary issues are often a sensitive topic for most people. You do not need to suffer in silence. Do speak to a urologist near you to discuss your symptoms and a urodynamic study plan.
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