ABSTRACT
Urodynamic investigations have become an integral part of daily urological practice. The need for objectivation of lower urinary tract functions or dysfunctions, and the knowledge that this can improve diagnosis and treatment has helped to overcome the critical antipathy which has kept resistance against urodynamics for so long. Urodynamic investigation is not a science in its own right. It is a diagnostic tool which offers several diagnostic possibilities that need to be correctly positioned in a complete diagnostic workout. Interpretation of the tests needs to be done individually, critically and should also rule out system- and technique-related mistakes. The technique is useful to evaluate detrusor function, detrusor over-activity, voluntary reflex contractions at capacity, and the patient’s ability to suppress detrusor contractions voluntarily. Urethral pressure profile is a graphic recording of the pressure within the urethra at each point along its length.
