A Urodynamic study is a series of tests that gives your doctor a detailed look at the function of your bladder and urethra. These tests can help your doctor evaluate any problems you may be having with storing urine or voiding (eliminating) urine from your body. These studies are important in diagnosing causes of the following problems:
- Loss of urinary control
- Urinary retention (inability to pass urine)
- Frequency of urination
How should I get ready for my test?
YOU MUST DRINK 16-24 ounces of water 30 minutes just prior to your appointment.
If you have been taking medication specifically to help your bladder relax or work better, stop taking it 5 days before the evaluation unless specifically instructed not to stop. Examples of medications that should be stopped include:
- Ditropan (oxybutynin)
- Probanthine (probantheline)
- Tofranil (impramine)
- Urispas, Cystopaz, Dibenzyline, Minipress (Prazosin)
- Detrol, Vesicare, Oxytrol
Do NOT stop taking antibiotics you are taking for bladder or kidney infections
Make us aware if you have:
- Mitral Valve issues, or
- If you normally take antibiotics before dental cleanings.
If you have these issues you need to take antibiotics before the evaluation.
What can I expect at the time of the procedure?
- You will put on a gown.
- At certain points during the study, you will be asked to urinate. Try to relax to help make the study results as realistic and reliable as possible.
- A catheter (soft, hollow tube) or special sensor will be placed in your urethra and vagina (and sometimes your rectum) to help with the study.
- Your bladder will be filled and you will be asked to empty your bladder.
- You may be asked to cough, stand, walk, or bear down during this test.
- Some of these steps may be repeated during the test.
- A computer is used to measure your urinary tract function.
What can I expect after the exam?
After this test, discomfort or slight bleeding with urination is common.
Drink a lot of fluids over the next 2 days.
You may have a little irritation, a few drops of blood, or both when you empty your bladder over the next 24 hours. This is expected.
Call the doctor if you (extension 10 during office hours or extension 15 after office hours):
- Have bleeding or discomfort that does not get better within 48 hours of the procedure
- Have a fever of 101 degrees or more
- Cannot urinate
When will I get my test results?
Your test results will be reviewed by Dr. Barry after you leave the office.
You will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment to go over your results with Dr. Barry for 1-2 weeks after you have the test.
At your follow-up appointment, Dr. Barry will go over a summary of the test results, discuss your diagnosis and your treatment options or if further evaluation is recommended.