Urodynamics

There has been much discussion and debate as to when and why to obtain urodynamics. The purpose of a urodynamic study is to find out whether a child has a neurogenic bladder. 

There are two types of urodynamics studies:

• A non-invasive urodynamics study (sometimes referred to as an "uroflow")
• An invasive study which may involve taking x-rays (sometimes referred to as "video urodynamics")

Non-invasive studies assess the child's voiding pressure, time to void, straining pattern, and whether they empty their bladder. This test does not tell if the patient has a neurogenic bladder.

In the more invasive urodynamics studies, a small catheter is connected to a machine to measure bladder pressures. Another small catheter, is inserted in the rectum (or colostomy if there is no anus) to measure abdominal pressures. If video urodynamics is performed, x-ray pictures are taken while the bladder fills. 

It is important that your physician have experience reading and performing urodynamics in children with anorectal malformations (ARM). Ideally urodynamic studies should be done by a urologist or specialized nurse practitioner. 

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At Nationwide Children’s, every child diagnosed with a colorectal condition is handled with an individualized treatment plan. For more information or to request an appointment, please contact us.