Urodynamics

Abstract

The urinary tract is a hydrodynamic system whose components are in precise balance with each other and whose functioning depends on mechanical equilibrium. Alteration of the delicate balance between bladder and urethra means dysfunction in voiding or continence. Of greatest clinical interest at present is the bladder-urethra matching mechanism, which controls normal or abnormal voiding or continence. Since the matching combination of bladder and urethra must obey the same hydrodynamic laws that govern all fluid systems, it is obvious that measurement of fluid quantities and fluid porperties should correlate with function and dysfunction in the system. Urodynamics is the art of developing standard fluid-mechanical techniques that will be useful in routine clinical evaluation. Increasing experience with diagnostic urodynamic tests nurtures non-invasive, precise diagnosis of voiding dysfunction. Inexpensive, readily available and convenient techniques have been developed and are in clinical use. We can look forward to many more.