Diagnostic procedures in female urology

Abstract

Diagnostic procedures in gynecologic urology are no longer limited to the medical history, physical examination, and Marshall test. Newer diagnostic procedures include urethroscopy, urodynamics with cystometry, urethral closure pressure profiles, uroflowmetry, electromyography of the pelvic floor musculature, and radiologic procedures. All are designed to provide a dynamic assessment of the functional capabilities of the lower urinary tract. Many of these procedures are complex and require sophisticated equipment to provide accurate measurements and are unsuitable for general office applications. This article describes these new diagnostic procedures.