BHN Healthcare Blog

Recently, a large-scale study of men referred to urologists in England for difficulty urinating has published results (Lewis Eur Urol 2019). This trial, called UPSTREAM, recruited over 800 men for two dozen locations across England. In addition to the usual history, physical and baseline evaluation for the voiding issues, some men were randomized to undergoing a urodynamics test (UDS) and the authors have recently reported some of their data.

After radical prostatectomy (RP), nearly 5-10% of men may experience substantial issues with urine control. Immediately after surgery many men have issues, especially with stress leakage; however, most will regain an acceptable level of continence within 6-12 months of surgery. For this smaller group of men with persistent incontinence, however, urine control can be a substantial issue and some require additional intervention to restore continence. Urodynamics can be a helpful adjunct in this population.

Prior to performing a TURP, there are several key tests that most urologists employ.

Aside from a history, exam, IPSS score, PSA and urinalysis, most will assess residual urine volume, perform a cystoscopy and measure the prostate – either with a formal TRUS, or based on a CT, MRI or abdominal ultrasound. Urodynamic testing (UDS) is used to varying degrees before a TURP by urologists. On one end of the spectrum there are purists who will only offer a TURP to someone with UDS-proven obstruction;

In the following article we focus on this study and discuss the effects of the uroselective α1-blocker tamsulosin on urodynamic parameters in male patients with type I primary bladder neck obstruction. Moving forward, an obstruction with high voiding pressure accompanied by poor flow and narrowing at the neck of the bladder with concomitant silent external sphincter on electromyography forms the basis for primary bladder neck obstruction. Alpha blockers, which are used in the treatment of primary bladder neck obstructions do not have evidence for objective urodynamic efficacy.

Let’s delve into the topic. Available treatment options for bladder neck obstruction are observation of the patient with follow-up, clean intermittent catheterization or bladder neck incision, alpha blockers. Studies conducted to assess the efficacy of the pharmacological approach are nonrandomized and small.

Disorders that affect the lower urinary tract are commonly diagnosed via a urodynamic stidu. If the disorder is not properly diagnosed, treatment is likely to fail. Here, a research study will be reviewed in which the value of urodynamic testing for diagnosing the causes of lower urinary symptoms in male patients was examined.