Bladder and Bowel Control Center

This diagnostic study tests the ability of the bladder to store and dispose of urine by measuring bladder pressure and urine flow. It is typically recommended when the patient is experiencing symptoms of incontinence or urinary retention.

The procedure: A typical urodynamic test is an outpatient procedure, usually taking about 60 minutes, that involves the use of a catheter to fill the bladder. It is usually performed in two steps:

• Uroflowmetry: The patient urinates into a device that measures flow and volume to identify the reasons for voiding difficulty, such as bladder muscle weakness or an obstruction.
• Cystometrogram: In this step, a catheter is inserted into the bladder, which is then filled with sterile water until the patient experiences fullness and urgency. Bladder and urethra pressures are measured and the patient is asked to cough or bear down to cause leakage. This information can determine the treatment.

What to expect afterward:

The patient should be able to return home soon after the procedure, though may feel mild discomfort for a few hours when urinating. Drinking water may help to reduce the discomfort.

The physician may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection. Any signs of infection, including pain, chills or fever, should prompt an immediate call to the physician.

Biofeedback is a practice designed to help patients better understand how the body normally behaves. In the case of urge incontinence, biofeedback can help the patient recognize when the bladder is overactive and help contract the proper muscles to stop the need to urinate. Often, a sensor is used to monitor muscle activity in the vagina, rectum or pelvic floor.

Kegels help to reinforce the muscles that control the flow of urine and can tighten the muscles of the pelvic floor. They may be prescribed for both men and women with incontinence or women with pelvic floor prolapse.

The exercise involves strongly contracting the pelvic muscles that hold back urine – many mothers may be familiar with the exercise from childbirth classes. These exercises should be performed as a regimen, meaning as many as 20 sets three times a day – but not during urination.

For patients whose conditions do not respond to behavioral modification or medications, The Urology Group operates a state-of-the-art neuromodulation clinic dedicated to the care of bladder dysfunction. Here, at our centrally located offices in Norwood, we use advanced medical devices and technologies to alter the activity of the nervous system.

Services and treatments offered: