Your doctor has requested that you have a urodynamic evaluation. Urodynamics are simply a combination of tests, which provide information about your lower urinary tract.This information is obtained much in the same way that an EKG provides information about your heart. Urodynamics draw a picture for your doctor of what happens as your bladder fills up and empties.

Urodynamics consist of 6-7 tests:

1. Uroflow electronic recording: Records rate or speed of urine flow as you urinate into a chair funnel attached to a computer.
2. Cystometrogram: Records internal pressure of the bladder as it is filled with water or x-ray dye. This evaluates how much the bladder stretches and how well nerve signals work to tell you when your bladder is full.
3. Sphincter electromyography: Records how effectively the sphincters (bladder and rectal) function to hold and release urine.
4. Abdominal void pressures (Valsalva leak point): Measures the pressure at which your bladder leaks when you cough or laugh.
5. Voiding pressure studies: Records the pressure of the bladder muscles as you urinate.
6. Urethral pressure: Records pressure within the urethra. This measures how well you are able to hold urine in the bladder.
7. Video Urodynamics: Uses x-ray contrast to fill the bladder so the bladder can be visualized during filling and urination.

PREPARATION

It is important to have a full bladder when you arrive. If you empty your bladder by intermittent catheterization, you will be asked to empty your bladder just before the test. Please notify the receptionist if you are unable to hold your urine prior to the tests.If you wear padding or use external catheters, you may need to bring extra supplies for after the testing.

Please let us know if you are allergic to latex or betadine, use a wheelchair, have any heart problems, or have any metal in your body. Also let us know if you have any conditions which would need any prophylactic antibiotics, such as mitral valve prolapse, artificial joints, valves, and other medical conditions making it necessary for antibiotics prior to testing.You may take your usual medications unless otherwise instructed. You may be asked to keep a bladder diary for 24 hours prior to your visit, listing the amount you drink, amount voided, as well as leakage. Please bring this diary with you to your appointment.

You can help to make the experience of testing easier by relaxing. Each step of the tests will be explained thoroughly and are made to make you feel as comfortable as possible.

DURING THE TESTING

First you will be asked to empty your bladder in a special chair. Then you will be asked to change into a gown. The nurse will place one or two small catheters into your bladder and rectum. A catheter will be used to fill your bladder with water to measure the movements of your muscles surrounding the bladder.As your bladder is being filled, you will be asked questions about how your bladder feels. The test itself will last1-2 hours.

AFTER THE TEST

All catheters are removed. You may feel a little discomfort, which is normal and can last for a couple of hours. You also may be given an antibiotic to take.

Drink plenty of fluids afterwards. You will need to set up an appointment with your doctor to discuss the results of your testing. Treatment strategies can be made based on the results. These could include behavior modification, medications, exercise, bio-feedback, and/or surgical intervention.