Urodynamics

Urodynamic tests help pinpoint the cause of certain urologic conditions. They’re especially helpful for people with sudden or unexplained urinary symptoms. Urodynamic tests are also helpful if your symptoms worsen despite treatment.

Your provider may recommend testing if you have any of the following:

• Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Painful urination
• Slow or weak urine stream
• Trouble getting urine to start flowing
• Urge incontinence (feeling a frequent, urgent need to pee)
• Urinary retention (problems emptying your bladder)
• Urinary changes related to a neurologic condition (stroke, MS, etc.)
  

Parts of Urodynamic Testing

Emory Healthcare offers a wide range of urodynamic tests, including:

• Cystometrogram. This test measures the pressure inside your bladder as it fills with urine. It measures the amount of urine your bladder can hold. It also confirms how full your bladder is when you feel the need to pee.
• Electromyography. Also known as an electromyogram (EMG), this test checks nerve and muscle function in and around your bladder. For example, it can tell us whether you have weak pelvic floor muscles.
• Post-void residual measurement. This test measures the amount of urine left in your bladder after you pee. It helps confirm whether your bladder completely empties.
• Uroflowmetry. This test measures the amount of urine that leaves your body when you pee—and how quickly you pee.
• Video urodynamic study. This test combines a cystometrogram, uroflowmetry and X-ray imaging in a single procedure. We can watch your bladder fill and empty in real time. And we can make sure there aren’t any structural problems in your lower urinary tract.

The number of tests you’ll need depends on several factors. These factors include your symptoms and whether your doctor wants to evaluate multiple parts of your lower urinary tract.

Once we have your test results, we’ll create a care plan that addresses your unique condition or symptoms. We’ll include you in any discussions about your treatment options, so you can make decisions that are right for you.

If you have a choice in where you have urodynamic testing, consider Emory Healthcare. Patients routinely choose us because we offer:

• Skilled team members. Our urologists, nurses and other team members perform urodynamic tests on a regular basis. They have experience working with patients of all ages and can address your questions and concerns.
• The latest technology. No matter how quickly urodynamic testing evolves, we stay up to date with the latest equipment and techniques. This is important because each urodynamic test offers unique advantages. And some tests are better at detecting certain urologic conditions than others.
• More treatments for more conditions. Whether your tests show you have urethral diverticulum or an enlarged prostate, we can help. Our urologists manage common and complex conditions. We offer every available medical and surgical treatment.