During a Urodynamics Study
The study may be done in the doctor’s office, a clinic, or a hospital. The study may take up to an hour or more. This depends on which tests are being done. The tests are generally painless. You won’t need sedating medication.
Tests That May Be Done
Uroflowmetry. This measures the amount and speed of urine you void from your bladder. You urinate into a funnel. It’s attached to a computer that records your urine flow over time. The amount of urine left in your bladder after you void may also be measured right after this test.
Cystometry. This test evaluates how much the bladder can hold. It also measures how strong the bladder muscle is and how well the signals work that tell you when your bladder is full. Through a catheter, your bladder is filled with sterile water or saline solution. You’re asked to report any sensations you feel. Mention if they’re similar to symptoms you’ve felt at home. You may be asked to cough, stand and walk, or bear down during this test.
Electromyogram. This helps evaluate the muscle contractions that control urination. Electrode patches or wires may be placed near the rectum or urethra to make the recording. You may be asked to try to tighten or relax your sphincter muscles during this test.
Pressure flow study. This test measures the pressure and flow of urine out of your bladder. It is often performed after cystometry. You’re asked to urinate while a probe in the urethra measures pressures.
Video cystourethrography. This takes video pictures of urine flow through the urinary tract. It can help identify blockages or other problems. The bladder is filled with an x-ray contrast fluid. Then x-ray video pictures are taken as the fluid is urinated out.
Getting Your Results
After the study, you’ll get dressed and return to the consultation room. Test results may be ready soon after the study is finished. Or, you may return to your doctor’s office in a few days for your results. Your doctor can talk with you about the study report and your options.
