A simple technique that takes the trauma out of detecting the cause of a common male problem has been developed by physicists at the Regional Medical Physics Department's (RMPD) Unit at Freeman Hospital. One-third of all men will, at some time, have symptoms due to being unable to empty their bladder completely. To find out why, urologists usually conduct a urodynamics test that involves putting tubes into the bladder and, at the same time, monitoring abdominal pressure. This is not a pleasant procedure as it can be uncomfortable so physicists were asked to come up with a method of assessing the problem non-invasive.
The alternative test is based on a technique used for blood pressure measurement. An infant size blood pressure cuff is placed around the penis and the patient is asked to empty his bladder into a flow meter. Once the flow is underway, the cuff is gradually inflated until the pressure is found which stops the flow. The pressure is then released and the flow restarts.
This test determines whether or not the bladder is normal and the problem has been caused by an obstruction - in which case the patient will require a small, corrective operation - or whether the problem is caused by the bladder not squeezing well enough.
Physicist Clive Griffiths said: "Although the pressure cuff technique is only being used at Freeman Hospital at the moment, it is hoped that a product will be developed which can be distributed to other hospitals by the end of the year."
RMPD have applied for a patent and, with the support of MedLINK funding, are working with MediPlus Ltd to develop the equipment.
Regional Medical Physics Department, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE7 7DN, UK.
Tel: +44 (0)191-233-6161 E-mail: webmaster@rmpd.org.uk Web: http://www.rmpd.org.uk
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Regional Medical Physics Department, a Clinical Directorate of the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
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