MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Uroflometry

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Uroflometry

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test	How the test will feel Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are

Illustrations

Urine sample

Alternative names Return to top

Uroflow

Definition Return to top

Uroflometry is a test to measure the volume of urine voided (excreted), the velocity or speed it was excreted, and how long the excretion took.

How the test is performed Return to top

You will urinate in a special urinal or toilet equipped with a machine with a measuring device.

You are asked to press a button shortly before you try to begin urination, and you may be required to press the button again when urination is complete. This machine will create a report for your health care provider to evaluate.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Your provider may ask you to temporarily discontinue medications that can alter test results.

Uroflometry is best preformed with a full bladder. Do not urinate for 2 hours prior to the test. Increase the volume of fluids you drink so you will have plenty of urine for the test.

Do not place any toilet tissue in the urine receptacle.

Infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel Return to top

The test involves normal urination, so you should not experience any discomfort.

Why the test is performed Return to top

This test is useful in evaluating the function of the urinary tract.

Normal Values Return to top

Normal values vary depending on age and sex:

Age: 4 to 7
- The average flow rate for both males and females is 10 mL/sec.
Age: 8 to 13
- The average flow rate for males is 12 mL/sec.
- The average flow rate for females is 15 mL/sec.
Age: 14 to 45
- The average flow rate for males is 21 mL/sec.
- The average flow rate for females is 18 mL/sec.
Age: 46 to 65
- The average flow rate for males is 12 mL/sec.
- The average flow rate for females is 15 mL/sec.
Age: 66 to 80
- The average flow rate for males is 9 mL/sec.
- The average flow rate for females is 10 mL/sec.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Several circular muscles normally regulate urine flow, and if any of these muscles becomes weak or dysfunctional, an increase in urine flow or urinary incontinence may result.

If there is a bladder outlet obstruction or if the bladder muscle is weak, a decrease in urine flow may result.

Any abnormal results should be discussed with you and explained by your health care provider.

What the risks are Return to top

There are no risks associated with this test.

Update Date: 7/28/2004

Updated by: Scott M. Gilbert, M.D., Department of Urology, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.