Postmicturition Dribble: A Physiological Phenomenon?

Katharina M Bretterbauer1, Stefan Heidler2, Daniela Colleselli3

  • 1Department of Urology, Krankenhaus Mistelbach, Mistelbach, Austria.

Urologia Internationalis
|February 8, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Postmicturition dribble (PMD) is common in men. This study found PMD is a physiological occurrence, not a disease, often linked with other lower urinary tract symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

Background:

  • Postmicturition dribble (PMD) is a prevalent condition affecting the male population.
  • Limited research exists on the physiological aspects of PMD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the physiological underpinnings of postmicturition dribble (PMD).
  • To differentiate PMD from other lower urinary tract symptoms.

Main Methods:

  • Uroflometry, IPSS, IIEF-5 questionnaires, and visual analogue scales (VAS) were used.
  • Retrograde urethrography measured bulbar urethral width.
  • An adjusted pad test quantified urine loss.

Main Results:

  • The PMD group exhibited worse IPSS, lower Qmax, poorer IIEF-5 scores, and reduced ejaculation force (VAS).
  • Worse IPSS correlated with a smaller bulbar urethral diameter.
  • Higher Qmax correlated with a larger bulbar urethral diameter.
  • PMD group reported significant bother (VAS 6) compared to controls (VAS 0).

Conclusions:

  • Postmicturition dribble (PMD) is a physiological occurrence, not a distinct disease.
  • Significant bother from PMD is typically associated with co-existing lower urinary tract symptoms.

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