Also known as a uroflow test uroflowmetry measures the flow of urine. It tracks how fast urine flows, the volume produced, and how long it takes.
By measuring the average and top rates of urine flow, the test can provide information on lower urinary tract symptoms. Poor flow or a feeling of incomplete emptying can be indicative of an obstruction in the urinary tract or detrusor underactivity (a weak bladder muscle). A high flow rate may mean there are issues with the muscles around the urethra or incontinence problems. It is usually one of the first urological tests carried out to get an idea of the case of symptoms.
While uroflowmetry can give an indication of issues in the lower urinary tract to identify the exact cause of the problem a more in depth test, such as urodynamics, is required.
The Test
For the test, you should arrive at clinic with a comfortably full bladder. If possible, do not urinate for a few hours before the test.
You will be asked to urinate into a funnel connected to an electronic uroflowmeter. This records information about your urine flow on a flow chart. The flow rate is calculated as a function of the volume of liquid passed. Both average and top flow rates are measured as well as the total volume voided. Typically a post-void residual will be measured using an ultrasound scanner to determine if there is any urine remaining in the bladder after urination and give an approximate volume for this. The results of the test will be available immediately.