Urodynamics

What is urodynamics, and why is it helpful?

Urodynamics is an excellent way to evaluate how effectively a child's bladder carries out its two main functions: filling and emptying.

The ways in which the bladder, urethra (urinary opening) and sphincter muscles (the muscles that control the urethra) work together can provide significant clues about why a child may be having difficulty staying dry, developing recurring urinary tract infections and/or experiencing bladder control challenges related to a birth defect or neurological disorder.

Urodynamics also helps the care team decide on the best ways to treat these conditions, whether through medication, behavioral therapy, surgery or a combination of approaches.

• Learn about the different urodynamics tests and procedures.

Who can benefit from urodynamics?

Urodynamics can be very helpful for children of all ages and with many different conditions, including:

• Anorectal malformations
   
• Bedwetting/daytime or sporadic urinary incontinence that has not improved with treatment
   
• Bladder exstrophy/epispadias
   
• Cloacal deformities
   
• Frequent urinary tract infections
   
• Spina bifida, spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions that affect bladder control
   
• Bladder and urethra obstructions
   
• Voiding dysfunction