Urodynamic Testing & Evaluation

Urodynamics is an in-depth evaluation of the lower urinary tract (bladder and bladder outlet or urethra).  These studies are important in diagnosing problems of loss of urinary control or urinary retention (inability to pass urine) or frequency of urination. 

This evaluation involves placing small tubes through the bladder to measure the pressure inside the bladder and a small tube inside the rectum to measure the pressure in the abdomen.  A complete evaluation may take up to two hours.

Possible risks of urodynamic evaluation

There is a small risk of infection after this type of procedure.  If new symptoms of burning, frequency or bleeding occur afterwards please notify us.  You should also inform your doctor if you might be pregnant.  

Preparation for urodynamic evaluation

If you've been scheduled to have a urodynamic evaluation, you'll need to arrive with a comfortably full bladder.  If you empty your bladder just prior to your appointment it may delay your test.    Medications taken to specifically relax your bladder should be stopped five days prior to your evaluation unless instructed otherwise.

More detailed information is available in a downloadable document on this Web site under the online patient forms section.