Urodynamic testing is the investigation of how the bladder and urethra store and release urine. By studying how well the bladder and sphincter muscles work, your physician can better understand your symptoms and develop a treatment plan. Symptoms that might require urodynamic tests include:

• Urinary incontinence (urine leakage)
• Frequent urination
• Sudden, strong urges to urinate
• Problems starting a urine stream
• Problems emptying your bladder completely

A urodynamic evaluation may include:

Post void residual volume: This test measures how completely you empty your bladder. It is measured by passing urine through a small catheter.

Multichannel cystometry: This test simultaneously measures the pressures in the vagina and in the bladder using two small catheters. These measurements allow detection of contractions of the bladder wall as it is filled. Bladder contractions are a common cause of frequent urination, urgency to urinate and incontinence.

Uroflowmetry: This test measures the efficiency of the bladder as it empties. The rate of voiding and the pressures exerted with voiding can be measured to detect abnormal bladder muscle function. These abnormalities frequently cause difficulty with starting and maintaining the urine stream and with poor bladder emptying.

Pelvic support assessment: This test determines how well the bladder, uterus and rectum are supported. Poor support of these pelvic organs can contribute to problems with bladder, sexual and bowel functions.

About Your Visit

When you are scheduled for a urodynamic test, your visit should last approximately 45 minutes. This visit will include an office consultation, brief exam, urodynamic evaluation and a proposed treatment plan. Please arrive with a full bladder.