[Ultrasonic measurement of residual urine is considerate and reliable]

The measurement of residual urine is often an invaluable aid in the examination of patients with prostate enlargement. As a result of the increasing scope of pharmacological treatment options in cases of such urinary problems, more such investigations are now being performed in primary care. Traditionally, residual urine has been measured by catheterisation of the urethra, which is associated with a risk of infection and other complications. As experience of ultrasound measurement of residual urine in 30 patients at a primary health centre suggests it to be a rapid, easily tolerated method unaccompanied by complications, it would seem to be an appropriate procedure even for use in the elderly with any of a variety of chronic diseases. It was also found easy for various categories of staff to learn.