Uroflowmetry

(Urine Flow Studies, Urine Flow Test, Urodynamic Studies)

Procedure overview
What is uroflowmetry?
Uroflowmetry is a simple, diagnostic screening procedure used to calculate the flow rate of urine
over time. The test is noninvasive (the skin is not pierced), and may be used to assess bladder
and sphincter function.

Uroflowmetry is performed by having a person urinate into a special funnel that is connected to a
measuring instrument. The measuring instrument calculates the amount of urine, rate of flow in
seconds, and length of time until completion of the void. This information is converted into a
graph and interpreted by a doctor. The information helps evaluate function of the lower urinary
tract or help determine if there is an obstruction of normal urine outflow.

During normal urination, the initial urine stream starts slowly, but almost immediately speeds up
until the bladder is nearly empty. The urine flow then slows again until the bladder is empty. In
persons with a urinary tract obstruction, this pattern of flow is altered, and increases and
decreases more gradually. The uroflowmeter graphs this information, taking into account the
person’s gender and age. Depending on the results of the procedure, other tests may be
recommended by your doctor.

Other related procedures that may be used to diagnose urinary outflow obstruction or lower
urinary tract dysfunction include cystometry, cystography, retrograde cystography, and
cystoscopy. Please see these procedures for additional information.

How does the urinary system work?

The body takes nutrients from food and converts them to energy. After the body has taken the
food components that it needs, waste products are left behind in the bowel and in the blood.
 The urinary system helps the body to eliminate liquid waste called urea and keeps the chemicals,
such as potassium and sodium, and water in balance. Urea is produced when foods containing
protein, such as meat, poultry, and certain vegetables, are broken down in the body. Urea is
carried in the bloodstream to the kidneys, where it is removed along with water and other wastes
in the form of urine.

Urinary system parts and their functions:

 Two kidneys. This pair of purplish-brown organs is located below the ribs toward the middle of
the back. Their function is to remove liquid waste from the blood in the form of urine, keep a
stable balance of salts and other substances in the blood, and produce erythropoietin, a hormone
that aids the formation of red blood cells. The kidneys also help to regulate blood pressure.

The kidneys remove urea from the blood through tiny filtering units called nephrons. Each
nephron consists of a ball formed of small blood capillaries, called a glomerulus, and a small
tube called a renal tubule. Urea, together with water and other waste substances, forms the urine
as it passes through the nephrons and down the renal tubules of the kidney.
 Two ureters. These narrow tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Muscles in the
ureter walls continually tighten and relax forcing urine downward, away from the kidneys. If
urine backs up, or is allowed to stand still, a kidney infection can develop. About every 10 to 15
seconds, small amounts of urine are emptied into the bladder from the ureters.
 Bladder. This triangle-shaped, hollow organ is located in the lower abdomen. It is held in place
by ligaments that are attached to other organs and the pelvic bones. The bladder's walls relax and
expand to store urine, and contract and flatten to empty urine through the urethra. The typical
healthy adult bladder can store up to two cups of urine for two to five hours.
 Two sphincter muscles. These circular muscles help keep urine from leaking by closing tightly
like a rubber band around the opening of the bladder
 Nerves in the bladder. The nerves alert a person when it is time to urinate, or empty the bladder
 Urethra. This tube allows urine to pass outside the body

Facts about urine:

 Adults pass about a quart and a half of urine each day, depending on the fluids and foods
consumed.
 The volume of urine formed at night is about half that formed in the daytime.
 Normal urine is sterile. It contains fluids, salts, and waste products, but it is free of bacteria,
viruses, and fungi.
 The tissues of the bladder are isolated from urine and toxic substances by a coating that
discourages bacteria from attaching and growing on the bladder wall.

Reasons for the procedure

Uroflowmetry is a quick, simple diagnostic screening test that provides valuable feedback about
the health of the lower urinary tract. It is commonly performed to determine if there is
obstruction to normal urine outflow. Medical conditions that can alter the normal flow of urine
include, but are not limited to, the following:

 Benign prostatic hypertrophy. A benign enlargement of the prostate gland that usually occurs
in men over age 50. Enlargement of the prostate interferes with normal passage of urine from the
bladder. If left untreated, the enlarged prostate can obstruct the bladder completely.
 Cancer of the prostate, or bladder tumor
 Urinary incontinence. Involuntary release of urine from the bladder.
 Urinary blockage. Obstruction of the urinary tract can occur for many reasons along any part of
the urinary tract from kidneys to urethra. Urinary obstruction can lead to a backflow of urine
causing infection, scarring, or kidney failure if untreated.
 Neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Improper function of the bladder due to an alteration in the
nervous system, such as a spinal cord lesion or injury.
 Frequent urinary tract infections
Uroflowmetry may be performed in conjunction with other diagnostic procedures, such as
cystometry and cystography.

There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend uroflowmetry.

Risks of the procedure

Because uroflowmetry is a noninvasive procedure, it is safe for most persons. The test is usually
done in privacy to ensure that the person voids in a natural setting.

There may be risks depending on your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any
concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure.

Certain factors or conditions may interfere with the accuracy of uroflowmetry. These factors
include, but are not limited to, the following:

 Straining with urination

 Body movement during urination
 Certain medications that affect bladder and sphincter muscle tone
 Before the procedure:
 Your doctor will explain the procedure to you and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions
that you might have about the procedure.
 Generally, no prior preparation, such as fasting or sedation, is required.
 You may be instructed to drink about four glasses of water several hours before the test is
performed to ensure that your bladder is full. In addition, you should not empty your bladder
before arriving for the procedure.
 If you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant, you should notify your doctor.
 Notify your doctor of all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements
that you are taking.
 Based on your medical condition, your doctor may request other specific preparation.

During the procedure

Uroflowmetry may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in the hospital.
Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your doctor’s practices.

Generally, uroflowmetry follows this process:

1. You will be taken into the procedure area and instructed how to use the uroflowmetry device.
2. When you are ready to urinate, you will press the flowmeter start button and count for five
seconds before beginning urination.
3. You will begin to urinate into the funnel device that is attached to the regular commode. The
flowmeter will record information as you are urinating.
4. You should not push or strain as you urinate. You should remain as still as possible.
5. When you have finished urinating, you will count for five seconds and press the flowmeter
button again.
6. You should not put any toilet paper into the funnel device.
7. The procedure will be concluded at this point. Depending on your specific medical condition,
you may be asked to perform the test on several consecutive days.

After the procedure

Generally, there is no special type of care following uroflowmetry. However, your doctor may
give you additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on your particular
situation.

Online resources
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your doctor. Please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may
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