Urodynamic
What is the Urodynamics System?
Urodynamic Assessment is a highly specialised and sophisticated method of making an accurate diagnosis of the cause of incontinence.
The Urodynamic system measures the important functions of the bladder. This is used to measure, integrate and correlate
- urine flow rate,
- bladder capacity, muscular control and
- nervous control.
This assessment is relatively inexpensive, takes approximately 45 minutes, does not require the use of drugs and is painless.
Urodynamics Procedure
The procedure is performed by using small size catheters in the
- urinary bladder,
- urethra, and
The fluid is filled up in the bladder and pressures are monitored to get a feel about the lower urinary function.
The tubes are connected to machines and a computer calculates various pressures and guides about disease entities.
It is not advisable to take the test if there any urinary infection.
The principle investigations are
- Investigation
- Symptoms
- Possible diagnosis
- Uroflow
- Frequency, nocturia, poor flow
- Bladder outlet obstruction
- Pressure flow
- Frequency, nocturia, poor flow
- Bladder outlet obstruction
- Cystometry
- Frequency, urgency
- Detrusor instability
- Urethral closure pressure
- Incontinence
- Genuine stress incontinence
- Ambulatory urodynamics
- Frequency, urgency pointing to unstable bladder but not shown on static urodynamics
- Detrusor instability, Genuine stress incontinence
What is Assessed and Detected using Urodynamics?
Urodynamic Assessment accurately detects most abnormalities. Depending on the diagnosis, the treatment recommended may include the
- taking of certain drugs,
- special pelvic floor exercises,
- physiotherapy or
- possible surgery.
How Often Is Urodynamic Assessment Necessary?
In most cases a single visit is all that is required.
With the extremely accurate diagnosis and the provision of recommended treatment, most people should find that their problems, if not totally solved, are markedly improved.
How Can Urodynamic Assessment Be Arranged?
You can arrange an appointment for urodynamic assessment through your general practitioner or, if you are under the treatment of a Urologist, they can organise the tests for you.
As some women experience a certain degree of discomfort with their periods, it is advisable not to attend during menstruation.
