What are urodynamic studies?

If simple treatments are not proving effective and there is doubt as to whether your symptoms are related to detrusor instability or weakness of the pelvic floor, urodynamic studies may indicate the most appropriate mode of treatment. A fine pressure transducer and catheter are introduced through the urethra and into the bladder. The transducer will measure the pressure in the bladder which is also influenced by the pressures within the abdomen. A second balloon and pressure transducer are introduced into the rectum to reflect the abdominal pressure. The associated recording instrument will subtract the rectal pressure from that obtained from the bladder transducer and the result is a true indication of the pressures generated by the bladder.

The bladder is slowly filled and a note made when there is the first feeling of needing to void. If there is detrusor instability, inappropriate increases in bladder pressure will be observed. The pressure transducer is then slowly withdrawn through the urethra and a record of the pressure there is made. This urethral pressure will be low if the bladder symptoms are due to an anatomical weakness. 

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