Postural influences on urinary incontinence in the elderly

To evaluate the requirement for provocative cystometry in urodynamic investigation in the elderly with urinary incontinence, 100 consecutive patients, who were referred on the basis of defined clinical criteria, were first studied by supine cystometry followed by provocative tests where necessary. The most satisfactory means of performing these in the elderly is discussed and the common incontinence patterns, which may point to their need, are described. Arising from the results, the different causes of acute onset from chronic stress incontinence in elderly female patients are emphasised.