What is urodynamics?
Urodynamics refers to a series of tests that evaluate the function of the bladder and urethra. These tests may be recommended if you have urinary incontinence (i.e. urine leakage), urinary urgency and frequency, incomplete bladder emptying, or are thinking of undergoing surgery for pelvic organ prolapse.
Urodynamics provides valuable information to help make an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for your urinary symptoms.
What are the components of urodynamic testing?
Urodynamic testing refers to a series of studies done with special catheters and sensors which are attached to a computer and the information collected is interpreted by a physician.
Uroflowmetry
This study measures the rate of flow of your urinary stream. You should come to the test feeling as though you need to urinate. Try not to empty your bladder one hour prior to the test.
EMG
This study measures how well you control your pelvic floor muscles. Sticky pads containing electrodes are placed near the rectum to record the intensity of your muscle contractions.
Cystometrogram
This study measures the functionality of your bladder. A very small catheter with a pressure sensor is placed in the bladder and another in the vagina or rectum. These catheters measure the pressure in your bladder as well as the pressure you exert on your bladder. The difference of the two catheters is the pressure of the bladder muscle.
Your bladder is filled with sterile water and you will be asked questions regarding the sensations you feel. Your responses will be correlated with your bladder pressures. You will also be asked to bear down, cough, or stand to assess for urinary leakage.
Pressure Flow Study
This study measures how well your bladder muscle, urethra, and pelvic floor muscles work together to empty your bladder. Once your bladder is filled to the point that you feel completely full, you will be asked to empty your bladder into a commode. The computer will measure the strength of your bladder contraction, relaxation of the sphincter, the urinary flow rate and the volume voided.
How to prepare for your urodynamic testing
Prior to your appointment, you may be asked to complete a voiding diary. Please bring this to your appointment.
Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, you should take your normally-scheduled medications. You may eat and drink as you normally do prior to the test.
The test takes approximately one hour. You may resume all activities immediately after the test, including driving.
Please arrive to your appointment with a comfortably full bladder.
Before the test begins, your urine will be tested for infection. If you do have an infection, the test will most likely be rescheduled until after your infection has been treated.
As always, we are just a phone call away. Please call (603) 431-6011 prior to your test if you have any questions.
