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Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Ultrasonography of the Adult Male Urinary Tract for Urinary Functional Testing
Published on: August 14, 2019
Urodynamic studies in pediatric urology
Tom P V M de Jong1, Aart J Klijn
1Department of Pediatric Urology, University Children's Hospitals, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands. t.p.v.m.dejong@umcutrecht.nl
Insights
Urodynamics investigations are crucial for diagnosing lower urinary tract dysfunction. These tests, ranging from simple voiding diaries to complex cystometry, provide essential information for effective patient management and kidney protection.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Pediatric Urology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Lower urinary tract dysfunction necessitates comprehensive functional assessment.
- Urodynamics, as defined by the International Continence Society, encompasses all investigations providing this information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the scope and utility of urodynamic investigations in evaluating lower urinary tract dysfunction.
- To differentiate between routine and specialized urodynamic tests.
Main Methods:
- Non-invasive methods include voiding history, physical examination, frequency charts, defecation diaries, uroflowmetry, and ultrasonography.
- Invasive methods like voiding cystourethrography and cystometry are reserved for specific diagnostic and management decisions.
Main Results:
- Non-invasive urodynamics provide essential anatomical and functional data.
- Invasive urodynamic studies are critical for confirming diagnoses and safeguarding kidney function in children with chronic conditions.
Conclusions:
- A tiered approach to urodynamics, starting with non-invasive methods, is essential for managing lower urinary tract dysfunction.
- Invasive urodynamic testing plays a vital role in complex cases, particularly for preventing renal damage.
Abstract:
In any type of lower urinary tract dysfunction it is mandatory to obtain as much information as possible on the function of the urinary tract. By definition of the International Continence Society, any investigation that produces such information is part of urodynamics. Thus, voiding and defecation history, physical examination, voiding frequency charts and defecation diaries are all essential parts of urodynamics. Repeated free uroflowmetry is considered an essential routine investigation by the International Children's Continence Society. Static and dynamic ultrasonography of the lower urinary tract and the pelvic floor can give important information on lower urinary tract anatomy and function, in a noninvasive manner. Invasive urodynamic studies such as voiding cystourethrography and cystometry are reserved for patients for whom the outcome of such studies is expected to change the therapeutic regime. Invasive urodynamic tests are performed primarily for one of two reasons. First, to confirm an expected diagnosis in new patients. Second, to ensure that the storage pressures in the bladder remain safe for normal functioning of the kidneys in children with chronic disease.
Related Concept Videos
Urodynamic Studies: Uroflowmetry
Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies
Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography
Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System III: Percussion and Auscultation
Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography

