Urodynamic Studies
Urodynamic Tests
Urodynamic testing is a type of exam that examines the bladder, sphincters ( muscles used to control the exit of urine) and urethra. These 3 areas are responsible for the handling of the body’s urine. More specifically, this test will take a closer look into how well the urine is stored and released.
What Types of Issues Can Urodynamic Testing Access?
The test will focus on:
- How steadily the bladder is able to hold and empty itself of urine
- Whether the urine is being emptied completely or partially
- If involuntary leakage is occurring due to contractions of the bladder
- Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)
- Urine leakage
- Pain while urinating
- Problems with emptying your bladder completely
- Urinary tract infections
- Frequent Urination
- Sudden urges to urinate out of nowhere
- Urine stream issues
How Is The Test Administered?
For very precise measurements and test results, imaging equipment is utilized. The machine will create images of the bladder as it both filling and emptying. This is invaluable to confirm whether or not the bladder is functioning as intended and emptying fully.
The machine also contains pressure monitors. These pressure monitors allow us to gauge the pressure inside the bladder wall and record both muscle and nerve activity. If an involuntary contraction is the cause of leaks, this will prove it.
What To Expect Before the Test
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may suggest that before you arrive for examination that you stop taking medications. They may also suggest either arriving with a full bladder, or in some instances, to reduce the amount of water for a period of time before your test.
What Types Of Urodynamic Tests Are There?
- Uroflowmetry: this is a test that analyzes the measurement of urine speed and volume
- Postvoid Residual Measurement: This test measures the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination
- Cystometric Test: this exam analyzes how much urine the bladder can hold and how much pressure builds up inside of it as it stores the urine
- Leak Point Pressure Measurement: this exam measures the pressure as the urine is being released during a cystometric test
- Pressure Flow Study: this study measures the bladder pressure needed to urinate and the flow rate a given pressure creates
- Electromyography: in this test special sensors are used to measure the electrical activity of the muscles and nerves in and around the bladder and sphincters
- Video Urodynamic Tests: through the use of imaging equipment, pictures and videos are taken as the bladder fills and empties
Are There Any Side Effects?
After the urodynamic test patients can expect to feel slight to mild discomfort when urinating for several hours after the exam. The doctor may recommend taking a warm bath to relieve any discomfort.
To schedule your urodynamic test with Dr. Norberto Fleites and his esteemed staff, please call DNF Medical Centers today at 321-235-6230.