Specialties & Conditions Urodynamics
Urodynamics
Urodynamics Program & Bladder Function Testing
The Urodynamics Program provides studies to evaluate bladder function. The program is comprised of staff from our nationally-ranked Division of Urology. We provide testing for conditions including neurogenic bladder, spinal defects or anomalies, urinary incontinence and tethered cord. Using diagnostic equipment specially created for children’s bodies makes it easy to base all of our diagnoses and treatments on the data we collect from your child’s individual results.
The program also provides specialized therapies, such as biofeedback, bladder therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) and therapy for dysfunctional bladder.
Why Choose Lurie Children's?
We combine excellent clinical treatment with compassionate interaction with your child because it is important to us that your child is as comfortable as possible. We partner with child life specialists to incorporate distraction techniques into testing procedures. Distraction helps your child shift focus from the testing itself to a playful place to help ease anxiety or discomfort.
What to Expect
Your first visit will include both you and your child. An experienced nurse practitioner will do tests such as uroflowmetry with electromyogram (EMG), a cystometrogram (CMG) or a video cystometrogram (VCMG) depending on your child’s unique needs and condition.
Uroflowmetry is a diagnostic test used to measure the flow of urine during urination. It is generally used to see if there is any obstruction or atypical pattern of urine outflow. An EMG is used to monitor and measure pelvic floor muscles during urination. Urine flow is measured and an ultrasound is used to determine if there is any urine left in the bladder. Download our brochure to learn more about the procedure and preparing for your child’s uroflowmetry.
A CMG test is used to assess how your child’s bladder behaves while urine is stored and while urine is passed. The test includes measurement of bladder pressure and muscle activity. A VCMG is similar to a CMG, but incorporates an x-ray of the bladder to provide a state-of-the-art diagnostic test. Please note that both the CMG and VCMG tests require a catheter. Download our brochure to learn more about the procedure and preparing for your child’s CMG.
A child life specialist will be available to provide playful distraction during the tests to help the testing process run smoothly and to make your child more comfortable. Awake sedation is used in select cases if distraction techniques do not work for your child. We recommend that you bring any items that will make your child more comfortable during evaluation and treatment, such as a favorite toy, bottle, pacifier or blanket.
Our Specialists
The Urodynamics Program is managed by Elizabeth B. Yerkes, MD. Dr. Yerkes is board-certified in pediatric urology and urology. Her special interests include neurogenic bladder and spina bifida, urodynamics, complex genitourinary anomalies and disorders of sex development.