Published on: 7/4/2025
What diagnostic tests are used to assess incomplete emptying of the bladder?
Doctors use several tests to check if the bladder is not emptying completely, like measuring how much urine is left in the bladder after peeing and using special scans or tests to see how the bladder works.
Explanation
To find out if the bladder is not emptying all the way, doctors use different tests.
Post-Void Residual (PVR) Measurement: This test checks how much urine is left in the bladder after you pee. Doctors can measure this using an ultrasound or by inserting a small tube called a catheter into the bladder to drain and measure the leftover urine.
Urodynamic Testing: This test looks at how well the bladder and urethra are working. It can help find out if there are problems with how the bladder fills and empties.
Bladder Scans: These are special scans that help see how the bladder is working. They can show if the bladder is holding too much urine or if there are other issues.
Doctors use these tests to understand why someone might feel like they haven’t fully emptied their bladder. This is important because not emptying the bladder completely can cause problems like infections or discomfort. By using these tests, doctors can find the best way to help the bladder work better.
(References)
- Van Kuiken M, Volkin D, Zaila Ardines K, Lin FC, Fullerton M, Kwan L, & Nitti VW. (2022). Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying in women. Neurourology and urodynamics, 34913516.
- Özlülerden Y, Toktaş C, Zümrütbaş AE, Gülten MC, Başer A, Yapıcı O, & Aybek Z. (2018). Can feeling of incomplete bladder emptying reflect .... Investigative and clinical urology, 29333513.
- Garrett VE, Scott JA, Costich J, Aubrey DL, & Gross J. (1989). Bladder emptying assessment in stroke patients. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 2916918.
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