Rigi10™ Malleable Penile Prosthesis
Also Known As
Urodynamic studies (UDS), urodynamic evaluation, urodynamics, cystometry, cystometrogram, pressure-flow studies, video urodynamics, ambulatory urodynamics, uroflowmetry
Definition
Urodynamic testing is a comprehensive group of diagnostic procedures that evaluate the function of the lower urinary tract, specifically assessing how the bladder and urethra perform their job of storing and releasing urine.1 These tests measure the bladder’s ability to hold urine and empty steadily and completely, while also detecting any involuntary bladder contractions that may cause urine leakage.2 Urodynamic testing provides precise measurements of pressure-flow relationships between the bladder and urethra, offering critical insights into various lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and urinary incontinence.3 The term “urodynamics” combines “uro” (referring to urine) and “dynamics” (referring to continuous activity), indicating that these tests evaluate the ongoing process of urinary function rather than providing a single static assessment.4
Clinical Context
Urodynamic testing is clinically indicated for diagnosing conditions that affect the urinary system or cause symptoms like leaking urine, frequent urination, or difficulty emptying the bladder.1 These tests are particularly valuable when initial treatments based on clinical examination have failed, or when patients present with complex urinary symptoms that require precise diagnosis before intervention.2
In clinical practice, urodynamic testing is commonly used to evaluate:
- Urinary incontinence (stress, urge, or mixed)
- Overactive bladder syndrome
- Neurogenic bladder dysfunction
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Bladder outlet obstruction
- Detrusor underactivity
- Post-prostatectomy incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse with urinary symptoms
- Pediatric voiding dysfunction3
The testing process typically begins with a thorough clinical assessment, including medical history and symptom evaluation using validated questionnaires such as the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6) and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7).4 Patient selection for urodynamic testing should be carefully considered, as evidence suggests that while these tests provide detailed physiological information, they may not always improve treatment outcomes in all patient populations.5
For surgical planning, particularly in cases of benign prostatic obstruction or stress urinary incontinence, preoperative urodynamic testing has been shown to be a predictor of successful surgical outcomes.6 In elderly men with LUTS and incontinence, a complete urodynamic evaluation is considered mandatory to understand the underlying pathophysiology.7