Videourodynamics
These studies are used to study the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra). They help in providing information about how the bladder and urethra are functioning as a unit, whether there is blockage from the neck of the bladder, the prostate, or from the sphincter muscle.
In the study of incontinence (leakage), these studies identify the type of incontinence along with other information about the bladder and urethra to plan the most appropriate treatment. The studies are done with the patient awake to reproduce the symptoms as closely as possible.
Small catheters are placed in the bladder and the rectum to measure pressures while patches or fine needles are used to measure muscle activity. Simultaneous x-ray images are obtained as the bladder is filled and during voiding. Such complete studies provide the most accurate means of diagnosing lower urinary tract problems such as urinary incontinence, incomplete emptying, or complete retention.
