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WHAT IS URINARY FLOW TEST?

Urinary flow test is a diagnostic screening procedure used to calculate the flow rate of urine. For this test, you will urinate into a special funnel that is  connected to a flow meter. It tracks how fast urine flows, how much flows out, and how long it takes. It’s a diagnostic test to assess how well the urinary tract functions.

During normal urination, the initial urine stream starts slowly, but almost immediately speeds up until the bladder is nearly empty. The urine flow then slows again until the bladder is empty. In persons with a urinary tract obstruction, this pattern of flow is altered, and increases and decreases more gradually. The uroflowmeter graphs this information, taking into account the person’s gender and age.

Results from the test can help your doctor determine how well your bladder and sphincter are functioning. By measuring the average and maximum rates of your urine flow, the test can estimate the severity of any blockage or obstruction. It can also help identify other urinary problems, such as a weakened bladder or an enlarged prostate.

Certain conditions can affect your normal urine flow. These conditions include:

  • Benign prostatic hypertrophy, or enlargement of the prostate gland, which can block the urethra completely
  • A urinary blockage
  • Neurogenic bladder dysfunction, or trouble with the bladder due to a nervous system problem such as spinal cord tumor or injury
  • Frequent urinary tract infections.

Men uroflowmeter Women uroflowmeter

HOW IS IT DONE?

Unlike traditional urine tests in which you urinate into a cup, you’ll need to urinate into a funnel-shaped device or a special toilet for the uroflow test.

It’s best to urinate as you normally would, without attempting to manipulate the speed or flow in any way. An electronic uroflowmeter hooked up to the funnel or toilet measures the speed and quantity of urination. You must not urinate until the machine is turned on.

When you’re finished urinating, the machine will report your results. Our urologist will then discuss the findings with you. Depending on your specific case, you may need to perform the urine test on several consecutive days.

Urinary flow test always coupled with bladder ultrasound measuring the post void residual.

RESULTS

Our urologist will use the results to determine your peak flow rate. Doctors generally use the peak flow rate, along with your voiding pattern and urine volumes, to determine the severity of any blockage or obstruction.

A decrease in urine flow may suggest you have weak bladder muscles or a blockage in the urethra.

An increase in urine flow may suggest you have weakness in the muscles that help control the flow of urine. This may also be a sign of urinary incontinence.

After testing the flow of urine, your doctor will take your individual situation and symptoms into account before they develop a treatment plan. You may need additional urinary system testing. You should discuss the results of your test with your doctor. They can help you determine if treatment is necessary and what options you have if you do need treatment. Talk to one of our urologists if you’re experiencing any problems urinating. It could be the sign of a more serious health condition.

RISKS

Because uroflowmetry is a noninvasive procedure, it is safe for most persons. The test is always done in privacy to ensure that the person voids in a natural setting.

Certain factors or conditions may interfere with the accuracy of uroflowmetry. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Straining with urination
  • Body movement during urination
  • Certain medications that affect bladder and sphincter muscle tone

Many men and women from across Quebec and Ontario choose Steinberg Urology for Urinary Flow Test. In addition to our world-class technology, our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

Our modern facility and patient-centred philosophy will ensure you have a positive experience at every turn. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional, clinical setting.

Urinary Flow Test CAN BE ONE OF THE EFFICIENT TOOLS TO DIAGNOSE THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS

Condition

Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

Condition

Bladder Infection

Condition

Cystitis (UTI)

Condition

Female Incontinence

Condition

Male Incontinence

Condition

Overactive bladder

Condition

Prostatitis

The images and/or videos are not presented as a guarantee of result. The results may vary. Patients gave their consent for the publication of images and/or videos.

LET'S START TALKING !

At Steinberg Urology we pride ourselves on our compassionate care we offer to those facing challenges that affect their quality of life. Our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

If you need to discuss this sensitive medical concern, schedule a consultation at our clinic in a safe confidential environment. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional setting.

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