What is Urodynamics ?
Urodynamics is an advanced test of functional urology that helps the doctor understand the pressures that are created in the bladder and the pelvic floor. This set of tests is performed together and is helpful in diagnosing the underlying problem more confidently and correctly.
Urodynamic Study involves connecting the urinary passage and motion passage with a machine through catheters which allows measurement of pressure from these cavities to assess function of the urinary system.
The patient sits down comfortably on a special chair and takes about half to one hour to complete.
After the test the cause and degree of functional disturbances can be discerned and appropriate measures can be taken to correct the problem
In which conditions is this test done ?
Urodynamics test is usually advised when there is:
- Abnormal pattern of urination showing excessive use of abdominal muscles
- Recurrent blockage in urine along with pain in back and constipation
- Inability to pass urine despite surgery for possible blockage
- Difficulty in passing urine along with problems of the back or spine
How long does this Urodynamics test take ?
The Urodynamics test takes about 1 hour and the entire process of bladder filling and emptying is studied to understand what pressures are being generated within the bladder.
The test is otherwise quiet comfortably done and the patient is usually sitting on a special motorized chair. The bladder is slowly filled first and the parameters are tested.
After the filling has been completed the patient is asked to empty the bladder into a special container placed below this chair. During emptying also patient has to remain seated in the same position.
How is the Urodynamics study (UDS) done ?
For the study no special preparation is required except that one has to clear the bowel in the morning prior to the procedure. If there is associated constipation we will recommend and prescribe a laxative for 2 to 3 days prior to the procedure. Morning bath and light breakfast is recommended. Clean the private area properly and trim the hair if possible.
During the test a lubricant cum anesthetic jelly is applied and two fine pipes are inserted through the urinary passage. Similarly another catheter or pipe is inserted through the anal canal to monitor the pressures of the abdomen. These catheters are fixed to the thigh. In case there is a need, surface electrodes are stuck to the thigh to assess activity of the muscles. Once all is set a saline solution is instilled through the bladder pipe and pressures are monitors on the computer.
The patient has to inform the doctor once he feels the sensations of urine. These are marked during the test and in the end once the patient cannot store the urine any further the patient is asked to pass urine and the pressures in the bladder during voiding are measured. Pressures within the bladder, abdomen and muscles of the bladder are measured during this test. Once the entire urine has been passed the catheters are gently removed and the report is handed over to the patient after which the patient can go home. Antibiotics are continued for three days after the test. Based on the prior urine examination an injection of antibiotics may be administered to prevent infection.
The urodynamics report looks like 4 to 5 graphs running in the same timeline. The PVes depicts the total pressure inside the bladder. The Pabd reflects the pressure exerted by the abdomen and the Pdet is the pressure that is produced by the muscles of the bladder.
If the Pdet is very low then it means that the baldder muscles are weak and this requires further tests like MRI of the spine to understand if it is a nerve related issue. If the Pdet is very high then it signifies that the urine flow is poor because of a blockage in the passage of urine.
What are the possible complications of Urodynamics Study (UDS)?
The study is complication free for almost all patients however patients who are unable to empty the bladder during the test are more prone to have urinary tract infections. To avoid it we prescribe antibiotics for three days after the test and empty the residual urine completely. It is important to have a lot of water after the test. Sometimes there may be mild bleeding and irritation while passing urine because of the insertion of catheters.
Book your appointment for urodynamics at +91-8383812737.
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