A new approach to electromyography of the external urethral sphincter

Abstract

Detailed electromyographic investigation of the external urethral sphincter was done as part of a urodynamic evaluation of 119 patients. The sphincter was located by inserting electrodes alongside the urethra. The electromyogram was viewed on an oscilloscope and recorded on paper. Normal and abnormal sphincter electromyograms were defined and the role of sphincter electromyography in urodynamic studies was discussed. It was observed that electromyographic activity does not always correlate with urethral resistance but must be interpreted in conjunction with other urodynamic parameters, such as urethral pressures, urinary flow rates and voiding cystourethrography. In addition, sphincter electromyography provides valuable information to define the various neural pathways involved in micturition and continence.