Automated Point-of-Care Bladder Pressure and Volume Measurement Device for Urodynamic Monitoring

Urinary incontinence affects approximately 8.2% of the global population, with patients suffering from spina bifida (SB), spinal cord injury (SCI), and multiple sclerosis (MS) at an increased risk for urinary complications. Traditional urodynamic studies (UDS) used for bladder function monitoring can be costly and logistically challenging, especially for patients in remote areas. This study introduces a catheter connected automated draining device designed to measure bladder pressure and volume during the draining phase, offering an alternative to conventional urodynamic testing. The system used a pressure and a volumetric sensor to capture bladder data during urine drainage. The device was evaluated through in vitro testing, with a multi-point 5th-order calibration procedure that generated accurate pressure and volume readings. Pressure and volume accuracy was validated via Bland-Altman analysis, with limits of agreement of 0.26 cmH₂O and 3.0 mL, respectively. The system demonstrated a linear relationship between pressure and volume during bladder drainage, confirming its reliability and potential as a cost-effective alternative for monitoring bladder function outside of specialized clinics.Clinical relevanceThis work has to potential to offer a cost-effective, at-home alternative for monitoring bladder pressure and volume, reducing the need for clinic visits and improving patient outcomes in individuals with neurogenic bladder conditions, including those with spinal cord injury.