Repeatability of post-void residual urine ≥ 100 ml in urogynaecologic patients

Post-void residual urine (PVR) is a key variable in the assessment of the emptying function of the lower urinary tract and is often used as an outcome measure after treatment. Increased PVR can lead to further investigation and treatment, or cancellation of planned incontinence surgery. In a prospective study, we aimed to assess the repeatability of the finding of PVR ≥ 100 ml in urogynaecologic patients.

Of 396 women with urogynaecologic complaints visiting our outpatient clinic, 297 had PVR measured after a micturition in full privacy preceded by normal desire to void. Women with PVR ≥ 100 ml were offered a second and eventually a third PVR measurement after a subsequent micturition. A Verathon Bladder Scanner BV 9400 was used to measure PVR immediately after micturition.

The prevalence of PVR ≥ 100 was 14%, which declined to 1.3% on repeated measurements. Voided volumes did not vary between voids.

One PVR measurement ≥ 100 ml is unreliable and needs repetition to confirm consistency.