Urodynamics Testing: Minimally Invasive Testing for the Cause of Urinary Problems in Men and Women
If you have any questions, to schedule a consultation or if you need a second opinion, please contact us or call: 646-663-4151
Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger is a board-certified urologist in NYC who specializes in treating men and women with urinary problems including frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, urinary urgency and incontinence.
What is Urodynamics Study?
A urodynamic study is not one single test but a group of tests that are performed to assess the functioning and efficiency of the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra).
At New York Urology Specialists, we use latest urodynamic equipment that combines multiple sensors to provide accurate information about the urinary bladder function. We offer affordable rates on urodynamic testing.
These tests evaluate whether the urinary bladder and urethra (the tube that releases urine outside the body) is storing and expelling urine as they should be. A healthy bladder can hold at least 500 ml (16 oz) of urine for up to 5 hours. Under normal conditions, during urination, the bladder should empty completely with minimal to no post-void residual.
Urodynamic studies evaluate the bladder, sphincters (circular muscles that prevent urine from leaking), and the urethra. They help the urologist diagnose the underlying cause of urinary symptoms and treat them accordingly. Symptoms of the urinary tract are often nonspecific. A urodynamic study provides objective confirmation of any underlying pathology. The following tests are done as part of urodynamic studies:
- Volume measurement
- Urine culture and sensitivity
- Uroflowmetry
- Post-void residual
- Cystometry or cystometrogram
- Pressure flow studies
- Leak point pressure measurements
- Electromyography
- Cystography or video urodynamic study
What are the Reasons that a Urodynamic Study is Done?
A urodynamic study is obtained when a patient presents with signs and symptoms such as:
- Incontinence (leakage) of urine
- A higher than normal frequency of urination
- A sudden strong urge to urinate without being able to expel any urine
- Problems starting the stream of urine
- Pain with urination
- Blood in the urine
- Reflux of urine from the bladder back towards the kidneys
- Incomplete emptying of the urinary bladder
- Frequent and recurrent UTIs
Typically, a urodynamics study is ordered when the initial treatment approach does not lead to sufficient improvement in symptoms.
Who Benefits from a Urodynamic Study?
If you have urinary signs and symptoms, a urodynamic study can help the urologist identify the underlying cause. This will allow the urologist to prescribe the appropriate treatment for you.
What to Expect after Urodynamics?
There is very minimal pain associated with urodynamic studies. There may be slight discomfort with urination for a few hours to a few days after the tests. Drinking plenty of water can help reduce this discomfort.
Increased urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria (pain with urination) can also be expected for 1-3 days following the procedure. You may be prescribed an antibiotic to prevent infection. Medications such as Pyridium and Uribel can help with urinary burning after the procedure.
Please read our detailed explanation on what to expect during urodynamics.
What are the benefits of a urodynamic study?
- Specific Diagnosis: Urodynamic studies allow to determine the exact cause of urinary problems that do not respond to therapy and allow selection of treatment that specifically addresses problems identified on urodynamic testing
- Minimally Invasive: There are no major risks associated with most urodynamic studies.
If you have any questions, to schedule a consultation or if you need a second opinion, please contact us or call: 646-663-4151
Urodynamics studies are performed in our offices by appointment in Manhattan. We see patients from NYC, Brooklyn, Queens, New Jersey, Bronx, Staten Island, Long Island and Westchester.