Diagnostic test that evaluates bladder and urinary tract function through pressure, flow, and volume measurements; provides differential diagnosis in urinary incontinence and voiding problems.
Indication
- Stress, urge, or mixed-type urinary incontinence complaints
- Symptoms of overactive bladder (frequent and urgent urination)
- Difficulty initiating urination, intermittent voiding, and a sensation of incomplete emptying
- Recurrent urinary tract infections and bladder symptoms of unclear cause
- Bladder dysfunction related to neurological disorders (MS, spinal cord injury, Parkinson disease)
- Pre-operative planning before prostate or incontinence surgery
- Voiding dysfunction and enuresis in childhood
Preparation
- Bring a voiding diary and a list of current medications to the appointment
- Active urinary tract infections are treated before the test
- Arrive with a moderately filled bladder; fasting is not required unless otherwise specified
- Medications affecting bladder function may be discontinued upon physician's recommendation
- Pre-procedure reassurance is provided and patient privacy is protected
How it's performed
- Uroflowmetry is performed first: flow rate and volume are measured while the patient voids freely
- A thin catheter with a pressure sensor is placed in the bladder; a second sensor in the rectum measures abdominal pressure
- During the cystometry phase, the bladder is filled with sterile fluid at a controlled rate while pressure-sensation relationships are recorded
- During the voiding phase, a pressure-flow study evaluates outlet resistance and detrusor contraction
- When indicated, electromyography (EMG) is used to monitor sphincter muscle activity
- All parameters are recorded as graphs and interpreted to support diagnosis
Post-procedure
- Brief rest and observation after the procedure
- Generous fluid intake is recommended
- Mild burning or pink-tinged urine may occur during the first voids
- Contact your physician if fever, severe burning, or bleeding develops
- Results are reviewed and a treatment plan (behavioral, pharmacologic, or surgical) is discussed with the patient
Risks
- Transient burning during urination and increased urinary frequency
- Mild bleeding (small amount of blood in the urine)
- Urinary tract infection (usually easily treatable)
- Brief procedure-related discomfort and concerns about privacy
- Very rarely, catheter-related urethral trauma
FAQ
Is the urodynamic study painful?
The procedure is generally painless; only mild discomfort may be felt during catheter placement and bladder filling.
How long does it take?
Depending on the tests performed, the full urodynamic evaluation is typically completed within 30-60 minutes.
What questions does it answer?
It provides objective data on incontinence type, bladder capacity, overactivity, outlet obstruction, and detrusor strength, helping guide treatment selection.
Can I return to normal activities afterward?
Yes. Most patients can resume daily activities the same day; drinking plenty of fluids and following physician advice is sufficient.
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