Date of appointment:______________ Time:______________
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment. We will check a urine sample.
What is urodynamics?
Urodynamics is the electronic evaluation of bladder function. This involves computerized measurement of the bladder's ability to store and empty urine. The concept is similar to an EKG which is a computerized evaluation of the function of the heart.
Why did my doctor recommend that I have urodynamics?
Since urodynamics allows a very precise evaluation of the ability of the bladder to store and empty urine it will help us understand what is and is not happening to your bladder. This allows us to target the specific problems(s) that you may be having. With this targeted therapy we are able to achieve better results with fewer side effects.
Is there anything that needs to be done to prepare for the test?
Yes. In order to get the most meaningful information we request that you follw these simple guidelines:
- Continue whatever bladder medications that you may be on, unless specifically directed to discontinue these by your urologist.
- Continue to take any and all other medications prescribed to you by your other physicians.
- For 48 hours prior to the procedure please avoid any potentially mood-altering medications such as sleeping pills, diet pills and stimulants.
- (The hardest one) For 48 hours please avoid caffeine if at all possible. Remember that most soda pop, tea, coffee and chocolate contain caffeine.
Are any catheters involved?
Yes. A small catheter (or tube) is placed into the bladder to allow for the infusion of sterile water and the measurement of bladder pressures. A second small catheter is placed in the rectum to measure pressures in that area. In addition, two small electrodes are placed around the anus to measure the electrical potentials in that area; these are very similar to EKG patches.
Is it painful?
Not really. Patients do experience some pressure from the filing of the bladder but it is usually described as similar to normal bladder pressure. The pressure sensation is almost always gone by the time the patient leaves the office.
How much time does all of this take?
The actual test takes about 20 minutes. We have allowed extra time for the nurse to set up your test and explain what will happen during it. Please allow an hour for your entire visit to our office.
How will my bladder feel after the test?
Most patients feel as though they have been through a pelvic examination (or prostate evaluation for men). Although the evaluation is a bit more involved than a standard pelvic exam there is generally very little discomfort. Most patients return to work or play immediately after the exam and discussion are complete.
What else do I need to know about urodynamics?
As with any test, the information needs to be interpreted to be useful. It is also important to keep in mind that the test will measure the bladder's function at that specific point in time. We also know that the function of the bladder (and many other organs) may change over time. Your physician will discuss this issue with you as well.
What should I do if I have any more questions?
Make a list. Your doctor and his staff will be happy to answer all of your questions to ensure that you are entirely comfortable before any testing is performed.
Updated 07/03
Main Phone: 952.920.7660
Billing/Business Office: 952.920.2046
| Main address 6363 France Ave. South Suite 500 Edina, MN 55435 Satellite offices |
||
| 303 E Nicollet Blvd Suite 310 Burnsville, MN 55337 |
2545 Chicago Ave S Suite 502 Minneapolis, MN 55404 |
1515 St Francis Ave Suite 250 Shakopee, MN 55379 |