Role of invasive urodynamic testing in benign prostatic hyperplasia and male lower urinary tract symptoms

Abstract

The role of urodynamics in the evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia is controversial despite the additional information regarding bladder function and outlet obstruction it provides. This controversy is primarily based on outcome studies that suggest men without proved bladder outlet obstruction may benefit from outlet reduction with medication or surgical resection. The aim of this article is to describe the role of urodynamic studies in the evaluation of benign prostatic hyperplasia, including illustration of existing urodynamic techniques, reviewing best practice guidelines and current literature, and providing recommendations for use of urodynamics in clinical practice.