Effect of urethral catheterisation on urethral sphincter emg and pressure profile

Abstract

AbstractThe impact on urethral sphincter EMG and pressure profile of the introduction of a catheter per urethram was assessed in 48 women with various voiding dysfunctions. Urethral EMG activity was recorded with vaginal surface electrodes placed behind the midurethra. A 5F urethral profile catheter was used in 13 patients (group I), an 8F in 23 patients (group II), and a 10F in 12 patients (group III).In all three groups a statistically significantly increased EMG activity was observed following the introduction of the catheter. This increased activity ceased after a median time of 3–5 minutes. The increased EMG activity did not affect the maximum urethral closure pressure and functional profile length. No correlation could be established between changes in EMG activity and changes in urethral closure pressure. It is concluded that the increased sphincter EMG activity provoked by catheterisation does not affect the urethral pressure profile significantly.