Patient Evaluation
The conditions associated with bladder, vaginal and rectal problems may have overlapping symptoms. A detailed history of the symptoms is always important but usually not enough to make an accurate diagnosis. Many female pelvic conditions are related, yet each needs to be individually addressed in order to achieve overall treatment success. At Urogynecology Consultants we have advanced training in applying state-of-the-art diagnostic tests to provide better understanding of the nature and condition of your problems. These diagnostic tests help direct our treatment toward conservative, non-surgical or surgical options.
New Patient Packet: A diagnosis cannot be made without a thorough history of the problem. Our new patient packet has several important parts that help our providers understand how your symptoms affect you. In addition, if prior treatment has been attempted, records of what has already been done should be brought to your initial visit for review.
- Condition Specific Questionnaires: help us focus in on the symptoms that are most bothersome to you.
- Bladder Diary: gives us picture of a typical day for you if regarding your urinary symptoms (frequency, urgency, incontinence, night time voiding).
Urodynamics: : Urogynecology Consultants is a leader in the field of complex urodynamic testing and interpretations. A typical urodynamic study consists of a series of tests designed to thoroughly evaluate bladder and urethral function. In order to understand every detail of your bladder problem, these tests record very precise scientific data on your bladder’s ability to store and empty urine. These studies are conducted to evaluate leaking urine, difficulty emptying the bladder, frequent urination, recurrent infections, blood in the urine and loss of bladder support.
Cystourethroscopy: Cystourethroscopy is a diagnostic procedure we use to directly examine the bladder and urethra. This is a well tolerated test performed in our office. A small, lighted tube is inserted into the urethra and advanced into the bladder for visual inspection. A small camera is attached to the cystoscope and images are displayed on a monitor. The patient and physician are able to see the bladder and urethra. Patients participate during the study by coughing and straining to help demonstrate incontinence. This helps the patient better understand their condition. Cystourethroscopy can assist in identifying these problems with the urinary tract:
- Urinary incontinence
- Recurrent bladder infections
- Interstitial cystitis
- Obstructed voiding
- Loss of bladder support (cystocele)
- Urethral diverticulum
- Periurethral cysts
- Bladder or urethral injury
- Foreign body (mesh or suture from prior surgery, bladder stones)
- Bladder or urethral fistulae
- Bladder cancer
