|
Urodynamics
Description of urodynamic evaluation
Urodynamics is an in-depth evaluation of the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra). These studies are important in assessing problems of loss of urinary control or urinary retention (inability to pass urine) or frequency of urination. This evaluation involves placing small tubes through the urethra into the bladder to measure the pressure inside the bladder and a small tube inside the vagina or rectum to measure the pressure in the abdomen. There will also be EKG-type electrodes taped to the area near the rectum and thighs. These electrodes measure the electrical activity of your urinary sphincter muscles. The catheters and EKG leads are placed with the patient on a special exam chair.
Once in position the catheters and EKG leads will be connected to special computerized transducers so that our urodynamics computer can measure the function of the bladder. We will assess bladder function while filling the bladder and while emptying the bladder. A complete evaluation may take up to 90 minutes.
This assessment can tell us a great deal about how your bladder works. We will see what volumes the bladder can handle, whether the bladder suffers instability ( a premature need to empty) and if the bladder suffers outlet obstruction (high pressure emptying). Most importantly of all we can screen for neurogenic bladder (high pressure storage). High pressure in the bladder can be damaging to the bladder and kidneys. High bladder pressure can cause bladder stones, and lead to severe bladder and kidney infections.
If you are scheduled to undergo urodynamics:
- Possible risks of urodynamic evaluation
After this type of procedure a small risk of infection exists. If new symptoms of burning or frequency or bleeding occur afterwards please let us know. You should receive antibiotics to begin taking the day before or the day of the urodynamics.
- Preparation for urodynamic evaluation
Try to report for your evaluation with a comfortably full bladder. If you empty your bladder just prior to your appointment it may delay your test. If you have been taking medication specifically to help your bladder relax or work better in any way--stop taking it 5 days before the evaluation unless specifically instructed not to stop. Examples of medications that should be stopped are -- ditropan (oxybutinin) - detrol (tolterodine) -- probanthine (propantheline) --tofranil (imipramine) -- urispas -- cystospaz -- dibenzylene.-> Do not stop antibiotics you are taking for bladder or kidney infections. You do not need to stop Elmiron if you are taking Elmiron. You should take any of your other medications, vitamins, or supplements as usual. For example, if you take medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease take them as usual.
- Medications
When you schedule your urodynamic appointment you should receive a prescription for 3-5 days of antibiotics to start taking the day before or the day of the study.
Your antibiotic may be:
- Levaquin 250 mg taken once a day for 3 days
- Bactrim DS taken twice a day for 3 days
- Macrodantin 100 mg taken twice a day for 5 days
- Keflex 250 mg taken by mouth four times a day for 5 days
|
