WHAT IS URODYNAMIC TESTING?

Bladder function testing, or Urodynamics, is a test that provides information about the lower urinary tract and its ability to store and empty urine. This test is useful in diagnosis and planning treatment for a variety of urinary problems including incontinence (involuntary loss of urine), overactive bladder, voiding dysfunction (trouble emptying the bladder), urinary retention (inability to pass any urine at all) and neurogenic bladder (urinary dysfunction related to diseases of the nervous system).

Urodynamic testing may be done when:

  • You have moderate to severe involuntary release of urine.
  • Other tests do not determine the cause of incontinence.
  • Your doctor suspects there is more than one cause for your incontinence.
  • You are considering having surgery.

These tests are given to both men and women. Most urodynamic tests focus on the bladder’s ability to hold urine and to empty steadily and completely. These tests can also show whether the bladder is having involuntary contractions that cause urine leakage. Tests may be done if symptoms suggest problems with the lower urinary tract. The objective of urodynamic testing is to aid in the selection of an appropriate treatment.

These tests are given to both men and women. Most urodynamic tests focus on the bladder’s ability to hold urine and to empty steadily and completely. These tests can also show whether the bladder is having involuntary contractions that cause urine leakage. Tests may be done if symptoms suggest problems with the lower urinary tract. The objective of urodynamic testing is to aid in the selection of an appropriate treatment.

Men bladder pressure catheter bladder Women bladder pressure
catheter
vaginal pressure
catheter

HOW IS IT DONE?

During the procedure the tubes fill the bladder and measure the pressure. This is done by placing catheters into the bladder through the urethra and into the rectum. The test typically takes 30-60 minutes.

You will be instructed to arrive for testing with a full bladder. While you urinate into a container, the volume of urine and the rate at which the bladder empties are measured.

A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is then inserted into the bladder through the urethra, and the volume of any urine remaining in the bladder is measured (post-void residual, or PVR). A slight burning sensation may occur when the catheter is inserted.

The bladder will be filled with water through the catheter until you have the first urge to urinate. The amount of water in the bladder is measured at this point. Then more water may be added while you resist urinating until involuntary urination occurs. The pressure is then measured while the bladder is filling and then while you are urinating.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER URODYNAMIC TESTS?

After having urodynamic tests, a person may feel mild discomfort for a few hours when urinating. Drinking an 8-ounce glass of water every half-hour for 2 hours may help to reduce the discomfort. The health care provider may recommend taking a warm bath or holding a warm, damp washcloth over the urethral opening to relieve the discomfort.

An antibiotic may be prescribed for 1 or 2 days to prevent infection, but not always. People with signs of infection—including pain, chills, or fever—should call their health care provider immediately.

Many men and women from across Quebec and Ontario choose Steinberg Urology for Urodynamic Testing. 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.

Urodynamic Testing 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

Interstitial Cystitis

Condition

Male Incontinence

Condition

Overactive bladder

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.

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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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