Traces: making sense of urodynamics testing

Urodynamics testing is used to describe lower urinary tract function, and diagnose functional disorders affecting the bladder, urethra, and pelvic floor. Urologic clinicians play a central role in urodynamics testing; they are primarily responsible for performing more than 75% of evaluations completed in North America. While the value of a well-done urodynamics assessment is well established, comparatively few clinicians have received formal training in the area. This article describes hydrodynamic principles underlying the measurement of intravesical, abdominal, and detrusor pressures. This is the first in a series of articles that will review principles of best urodynamics practices.