Urodynamics
This Procedure is only performed at Greenslopes Private Hospital with a Flexible Cystoscopy beforehand.
Indication for Procedure
If you are experiencing issues of urine leakage or blocked urine flow, your doctor may recommend urodynamic testing. Urodynamic testing provides information about how well your bladder and sphincter muscles work and can explain symptoms such as:
- Incontinence
- Urinary frequency
- A sudden, strong urge to urinate
- Urinary hesitancy
- Painful urination
- Inability to empty the bladder entirely
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
Cystometry (Measurement of Bladder Pressure)
A Cystometrogram (CMG) measures the volume of urine your bladder can hold, the amount of pressure that builds inside your bladder as it stores urine, and the capacity of urine within the bladder when you first feel the urge to urinate.
We will ask you to empty your bladder prior to commencing the urodynamics. During the procedure:
- A small urinary catheter will be placed into the bladder via the urethra. This catheter has a pressure-measuring device called a manometer.
- Another catheter will be placed in the rectum.
- Your bladder will slowly be filled with water and you will be asked to cough or strain occasionally.
These actions will help the doctor to evaluate your sphincter muscles. You will also be asked to notify the doctor when you first feel an urge to urinate.
Measurement of Leak Point Pressure
While your bladder is being filled for the CMG, it may suddenly contract and release some water without warning.
The manometer will record the pressure at the point when the leakage occurs. This reading may provide information about the particular bladder problem you have.
Pressure Flow Study
After the CMG, you will be asked to empty your bladder. The catheter will measure the bladder pressure required to urinate and the flow rate while pressure generates.
This pressure flow study aims to identify bladder outlet obstruction that can occur in men from an enlarged prostate.
Bladder outlet obstruction is less common in women, however, can occur with a fallen bladder, or rarely after a surgical procedure for urinary incontinence.
Most catheters can be used for both CMG and pressure-flow studies.
Uroflowmetry
A uroflowmeter measures the amount of urine and the flow rate. This equipment creates a graph showing changes in the flow rate each second.
After the Procedure
You may experience mild discomfort for a few hours upon urination, however, drinking water will alleviate this discomfort. If you have any symptoms of infection such as pain, chills, or fever – you should contact your doctor immediately.
Minor haematuria (blood in the urine) is not unusual. Taking paracetamol can alleviate any mild pain you may experience.
What are the possible risks associated with this procedure?
- Urethral trauma or stricture
- Infection – in the urine or blood
- Bleeding
- Bladder injury
- Failed procedure
Receiving the results
Dr Hadley will discuss any findings with you after the procedure and you will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss possible treatments.
Why Has a Urodynamic Test Been Recommended?
A urodynamic diagnostic test is recommended to rule out or confirm certain disorders of the urinary bladder and urethra. These disorders include:
● Neurogenic bladder dysfunction,
● Spinal cord injury
● Multiple sclerosis
● Diabetes.
Other conditions that warrant testing bladder strength by using Urodynamic in trauma and age-related issues.
Urodynamic is also indicated in patients with complicated medical histories, incontinence not responsive to surgery or medical therapy and nocturnal enuresis.
What Are the Consequences of Not Conducting Urodynamic Tests?
There are no consequences directly related to not taking the diagnostic test. However, by not identifying the nature of a bladder disorder and the functional attributes, may result in delaying an accurate diagnosis or the selection of an incorrect therapy, hindering recovery.
