Urodynamics

What are Urodynamics?
Urodynamics is simply the study of how your lower urinary tract (the bladder and outlet tube, the urethra) stores and eliminates urine.  You may be asked to undergo these tests as they are important in helping us establish your diagnosis or assist in treatment planning.

What is done during these tests?
The tests are really very simple and in fact, painless.  You will be asked to arrive with a full bladder, and the first thing you will do is empty in a private setting into a toilet that measures the amount and flow characteristics of you emptying function.  Once this is done, a small catheter is used to empty your bladder to measure the amount left (we all have a little remaining).

Special pressure sensitive catheters are then placed into the bladder through the urethra, and into either the vagina or rectum.  They are very small (about the size of a piece of spaghetti) and soft.  These sensors measure pressure in various areas which give us information about your urinary tract function.  The bladder is then slowly filled with sterile water and you are asked about certain sensations during filling.  At points during the filling you will be asked to cough, bear down, and to contract your pelvic floor muscles.  Once you tell us you feel full, the filling is stopped and you may be asked to void into the special toilet again with the sensors in place.

You will always be in control and will not be asked to tolerate painful situations.  Our staff is very experienced in such testing and will remain very sensitive to your comfort and needs during the procedure. 

How long does it take?
Testing generally takes about an hour, occasionally less or more based on your situation.

How do I prepare?
You need no real preparation but should arrive with a reasonably full bladder.  Do that by slightly increasing your normal fluid intake and avoid emptying your bladder about 3 hours prior to your appointment.

Do I need someone to drive me home?
No, the testing requires no anesthesia or sedation and you will not have significant discomfort following testing.

What about the results?
Often a separate visit will be scheduled to discuss the results and go over all of the available options along with their advantages and disadvantages.  Our focus is to assist you in making educated decisions about what options are right for you based on your individual needs and circumstances.