Uroflowmetric analysis and derivation of nomograms for normal paediatric Indian population between 5 to 15 years of...

We aimed to established normal uroflowmetric values and subsequently derived nomograms of maximum flow rate (Q_max) and average flow rate (Q_avg) against voided volume (VV) in children aged 5-15 years at our institute.

A total of 440 children underwent uroflowmetric evaluation with no history of urological, renal, psychiatric, or neurological disorder between 5 and 15 years of age. Each subject data regarding Q_max, Q_avg, VV, time to Q_max, and flow time, as well as age, sex, height, and weight were recorded. Of the 440 children, around 300 (68.18%) children could produce a normal flow rate at VV of more than 50 mL. Of the remaining 140 (31.82%) children, 50.00% voided less than 50 mL, and remaining 50.00% had abnormal voiding pattern, staccato or interrupted (21.43% each) and plateau or tower shaped (3.57% each). Cases were divided into two age groups (5-9 years and 10-15 years), and uroflowmetric analysis was done between boys and girls in both age groups to derive nomograms of Q_avg and Q_max.

Q_max and Q_avg flow nomograms were plotted for boys and girls. Mean Q_max for boys was 16.68 mL/s and for girls 20.69 mL/s. The mean Q_avg values were 11.04 mL/s and 8.60 mL/s for girls and boys, respectively. The Q_max and Q_avg values were higher in girls. There were significant increases in flow rates with increasing age, body surface area, and VV in both sexes.

Nomograms for Q_max and Q_avg may be a useful tool in evaluation of lower urinary tract disturbances in children.