Urodynamic Testing

What is a Urodynamic Study?

A Urodynamic Study is actually a series of tests designed to thoroughly evaluate the function of your bladder. It helps identify the cause of problems such as leaking urine, difficulty emptying the bladder, frequent urination, and urgent urination.

What to Expect

Your study will be performed by an experienced Urodynamic Specialist. She will be happy to answer any questions you may have before, during, or after your study.

Before your study you will be taken to a private room and asked to undress from the waist down. The first part of the study is a simple voiding test; therefore we ask that you arrive with a comfortably full bladder. We will ask you to urinate on a special toilet, and a sensor will record important data. After you urinate, a small catheter is placed into the bladder as gently as possible and then another small catheter is inserted into the vagina or rectum.

The bladder is then filled with water using a calibrated pump. You will be given a "patient sensation" card and asked to notify the Urodynamic Specialist when you fell certain sensations. Throughout the study you will be asked to bear down and cough as the Urodynamic Specialist measures pressures within and around your bladder. The goal is to reproduce the symptoms you are experiencing.

The final part of the study is an additional voiding test. The catheters will stay in place to measure pressures as you attempt to empty your bladder. The catheters will then be removed, and you will be allowed to clean up and get dressed.

The entire study normally takes 30 - 45 minutes to complete. The data recorded from the study is compiled and later reviewed by your physician and/or an outside specialist to determine the best treatment options for you.

Many patients are worried or embarrassed about their upcoming urodynamic test. Don't be. Remember that the goal is to reproduce your symptoms which often include making you lose control of your bladder. This is normal and your Urodynamic Specialist is expecting this to happen.

Parts of your urodynamic test will be uncomfortable and you may experience significant discomfort while the tests are being conducted. This is normal and to be expected. The Urodynamic Specialist has been trained to monitor your discomfort and complete the study as quickly as possible to reduce your stress.

Pre-Testing Instructions

• Please arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time to allow time for registration and to fill out a short questionnaire.
• We ask that you arrive with a comfortably full bladder, as the first part of the study involves a simple voiding procedure.
• You may eat and drink prior to the study; it is not required that you fast.
• If you are prone to urinary tract infections (UTI's) and you feel that you may have a current infection, contact the physician who ordered your test. A urodynamic study will not be performed on patients who test positive for a bladder infection. Make sure to reschedule your appointment once your UTI has been alleviated.
• If your physician has prescribed medications for your bladder such as Detrol LA, Enablex, Vesicare, or Ditropan, please stop taking this medication 48 hours prior to your study date, unless your physician has directed you otherwise.
• If you have mobility limitations, please let us know prior to your appointment date, so we can schedule accordingly and have transfer assistance available, if necessary.

After Your Urodynamic Study...

• Drink plenty of water to flush out your bladder. Avoid fluids containing alcohol, caffeine or carbonation for 24 hours after your urodynamic study as these may irritate the bladder lining.
• It is not uncommon to experience bladder discomfort (such as stinging, burning, or aching) for the first 12 to 24 hours after your urodynamic test. Soaking in a warm tub or sitz bath can often alleviate this discomfort.
• Some patients may develop urinary tract infections after their urodynamic study. Symptoms may include: fever or chills, painful urination, frequent or urgent urination, blood in urine, low back pain, and/or difficulty emptying the bladder. If you experience any of these symptoms please notify your physician.
• Schedule a follow-up appointments to discuss your urodynamics results with your physician.