Clinical Application of Videourodynamics in Diagnosis of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction

Abstract

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are frequently encountered in urological practice. Although lower urinary tract dysfunction has been well explored, diagnosis of LUTS is not easy, mainly because patients often present with a combination of symptoms. Urination is a synchronized action of urethral sphincter relaxation and detrusor contraction. Abnormalities in the bladder and urethra frequently occur in combination. Investigation of lower urinary tract dysfunction should be based on findings of detrusor contractility, external sphincter activity, flow rate, and anatomical changes during voiding. Videourodynamic study is based on the combined studies of image and pressure flow and is used in the differential diagnosis of LUTS. In combination with cystometry, abdominal pressure and detrusor pressure determination, external sphincter electromyography, flow rate, and voiding cystourethrography, videourodynamic study can provide complete information on anatomical and functional abnormalities. Videourodynamic study should be performed in order to obtain a correct diagnosis and treatment when LUTS that are refractory to medical treatment.