Uroflowmetry and Residual Urine Volume (RUV)

Uroflowmetry is a test the amount of urine voided during urination. It also measures the speed of urination. It helps the doctor to identify the causes of certain urinary difficulties.

Uroflowmetry (a.k.a. uroflow test) is a test in which patients urinate into a receptacle that measures the rate at which urine is voided. This test is used to help doctors to identify the causes of urinary difficulties such as weak urine stream. It is also used to test the sphincter muscle which is a circular muscle that closes tightly around the bladder opening to prevent urine leakage.

With uroflowmetry, it can determine how well is your bladder and sphincter are functioning. It is used to test for obstructions in the normal flow of urine. By measuring the average and maximum rates of your urine flow, it can estimate the severity of any blockage or obstructions.

Certain conditions can affect your normal urine flow, such as:

• Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy
• Bladder Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Urinary Blockage
• Neurogenic Bladder

If you feel that you might be having a weak urine stream or any difficulties while urinating, then it is suggested for you to take a uroflowmetry

Results from the test can help your doctor determine how well your bladder and sphincter are functioning. The test can also be used to test for obstructions in the normal flow of urine. By measuring the average and maximum rates of your urine flow, the test can estimate the severity of any blockage or obstruction. It can also help identify other urinary problems, such as a weakened bladder or an enlarged prostate.

Your doctor will use the results to determine your peak flow rate, or Qmax. Doctors generally use the peak flow rate, along with your voiding pattern and urine volumes, to determine the severity of any blockage or obstruction.

A decrease in urine flow may suggest you have weak bladder muscles or a blockage in the urethra.

Certain conditions can affect your normal urine flow. These conditions include:

• benign prostatic hypertrophy, or enlargement of the prostate gland, which can block the urethra completely
• bladder cancer
• prostate cancer
• a urinary blockage
• neurogenic bladder dysfunction, or trouble with the bladder due to a nervous system problem such as spinal cord tumor or injury

Be sure to arrive at your doctor’s office with a full bladder. You should drink plenty of liquids to make sure you have enough urine for the test.

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or think you may be. You should also tell your doctor about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and any supplements you’re taking. Certain medications can interfere with bladder function.