Do static cystourethrograms have a role in the investigation of female incontinence?

Two hundred and forty-eight women with lower urinary tract complaints who were referred to a special gynecologic urology and urodynamic unit had static cystourethograms (CUG's) performed as part of their diagnostic workups. In women with urodynamic evidence of true anatomic sphincter-weakness stress urinary incontinence (SUI), there was a poor correlation with standard CUG interpretations of SUI as suggested by Green (Types I and II). Also, pure SUI was rarely seen as the sole problem and most patients demonstrated combinations of sensory urgency and unstable bladders. With the recent advent of more formal techniques of urodynamic investigation to include cystoscopy, urethroscopy, and simultaneous cyctometry and urethral pressure profilometry, the importance of a more thorough investigation of lower urinary tract complaints prior to surgical intervention is emphasized.