Urodynamics

Urodynamics is a series of tests performed at Urology Specialists of Ohio to evaluate how well your bladder, urethra, and sphincter muscles store and release urine. This information helps urologists diagnose and manage various lower urinary tract conditions (LUTS).

What are LUTS?

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is a term used to describe a variety of symptoms affecting urination. These symptoms can be caused by various underlying conditions, and urodynamics is a valuable tool for urologists at Urology Specialists of Ohio to identify the cause of your LUTS and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Common LUTS Symptoms

Some common LUTS symptoms that urodynamics can help assess include:

• Urinary urgency: A sudden and strong need to urinate
• Urinary frequency: Needing to urinate more often than usual, including at night (nocturia)
• Hesitancy: Difficulty starting urination
• Incomplete bladder emptying: Feeling like you haven't emptied your bladder completely
• Weak urine stream
• Dribbling after urination
• Pelvic pain

Urodynamics Tests

Urodynamics typically involves a combination of the following tests performed at Urology Specialists of Ohio:

• Uroflowmetry: Measures the rate of urine flow during urination.
• Cystometry: Assesses how well your bladder stores urine by measuring pressure changes within the bladder as it fills with sterile fluid.
• Pressure-Flow Study: Measures pressure in the urethra and bladder during urination to assess potential blockages or weakness.

Your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio will determine which specific urodynamic tests are necessary based on your individual case.

Urodynamics Procedure

Urodynamics is typically performed on an outpatient basis at Urology Specialists of Ohio. Here's a general overview of the procedure:

• You may receive local anesthesia or numbing medication.
• A thin catheter is inserted into your bladder through the urethra to fill it with sterile fluid.
• Another catheter may be placed in the rectum to measure abdominal pressure.
• You will be asked to urinate into a special toilet commode that measures urine flow rate.
• The entire procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes.

After Urodynamics

After urodynamics, you may experience some burning with urination or blood in the urine for a short time. Your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio will provide specific post-procedure instructions.

Benefits of Urodynamics

Urodynamics provides valuable information for diagnosing and managing LUTS. It helps urologists identify:

• Bladder outlet obstruction
• Overactive bladder muscles
• Weak bladder muscles
• Pelvic floor dysfunction

Urology Specialists of Ohio: Your Partner in Urologic Care

At Urology Specialists of Ohio, we understand how LUTS can disrupt your daily life. Urodynamics is a valuable tool that allows us to accurately diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Our urologists are committed to improving your urinary function and overall well-being. Contact Urology Specialists of Ohio today to schedule a consultation and discuss if urodynamics testing is right for you.