Pediatric Urodynamic Testing
If you are under the age of 18 you must have an adult with you for the entire study.
Urodynamics is the study of how the body stores and releases urine. The test measures the function of your bladder, urethra, and pelvic floor muscles together. Your bladder pressure, urine flow, and muscle movement are assessed as your bladder fills and empties. It provides your doctor with information on how to treat your bladder symptoms.
Before the Test
The test takes place in the Pediatric Urology Clinic or the pediatric sedation clinic. Expect the test to take 1½ to 2 hours. Arrive at the clinic with a full bladder. You do not need to be so full that you are uncomfortable. If you are on a catheterization program, stay on your schedule. There is no extra prep needed, unless you have been told to do so by your doctor or nurse.
During The Test
If able to, you may be asked to urinate in a special toilet to measure the force of your urine flow, the time it takes to pass urine, and the amount of urine in your bladder. A small soft tube (catheter) will be placed in your bladder though your urethra. A small pressure sensor will be put just inside your rectum. This will not hurt. You will also have small sticky pads placed next to your rectum to measure the muscles of your pelvic floor.
Once the tubes and pads are in place, they will be connected to a computer. Your bladder will be filled slowly with sterile water. The nurse will ask you questions about the sensations you are feeling. Your bladder may be filled a second time to ensure accurate results.
If you have been scheduled for a Video Urodynamic study (done in the adult urology clinic), we will fill your bladder with x-ray contrast instead of water. The contrast allows your doctor to use x-ray images to see your bladder while filling, straining, coughing, and passing urine. Please call us ahead of time if you or the adult coming with you for the study is pregnant or could be pregnant. No other children will be allowed to attend this study due to x ray exposure.
After the Test
When the test is complete, the catheters and pads are removed. Expect to have some burning when you empty your bladder. This is normal and should go away in 24 hours.
When to Call the Doctor
- Temperature greater than 100.4°F by mouth for 2 readings taken 4 hours apart.
- Problems passing urine.
- Large blood clots in your urine.
- Bloody urine you cannot see through.
Phone Numbers
Pediatric Urology Clinic (608) 263-6420
After hours, the clinic number will be answered by the paging operator. Ask for the pediatric urology doctor on call. Leave your name and phone number with the area code. The doctor will call you back.
If you live out of the area, call 1-800-323-8942.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 04/18/2011
Copyright © 04/18/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#7183
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