Dr. Ramos Roncero, specialist in Urology, explains what Urodynamics or a urodynamic study consists of. He also explains the main applications of the test.
What are urodynamic explorations?
Urodynamic examinations study the functioning of the bladder and sphincters, both during the filling phase of the bladder and during the emptying phase, i.e. during urination.
Is prior preparation necessary?
No. It is not necessary to be fasting and only an antibiotic is administered to prevent infections due to the manipulation.
What does the examination consist of?
The study is performed by placing a catheter in the bladder and another at the level of the rectum (as if it were a suppository). The catheter is placed through the urethra, which is very thin and soft.
Through the bladder catheter, the bladder is filled with saline and the changes in bladder pressure are measured, depending on the volume perfused in the bladder. The rectal catheter is used to measure abdominal pressure at all times.
These tests usually take between 30 and 45 minutes to perform.
For which cases are urodynamic examinations recommended?
These explorations of the bladder and sphincters are indicated for:
- The study of urinary incontinence, both male and female.
- To demonstrate or rule out an obstruction to urinary flow, as may occur in prostatic hypertrophy or urethral strictures, among others.
- In neurogenic bladder secondary to neurological pathology due to cerebral pathology, spinal cord or the nerves that emerge from it. Also secondary to trauma affecting the spine, spinal cord and pelvis.
- They are also usually performed in recurrent urinary tract infections.