The penile cuff test: A clinically useful non-invasive urodynamic investigation to diagnose men with lower urinary tract symptoms

• Main Authors: Christopher Harding, Wendy Robson, Michael Drinnan, Stuart McIntosh, Mustafa Sajeel, Clive Giffiths, Robert Pickard
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2009-01-01
• Series: Indian Journal of Urology
• Subjects: Bladder outlet obstruction; non-invasive urodynamics; urinary symptoms
• Online Access: http://www.indianjurol.com/article.asp?issn=0970-1591;year=2009;volume=25;issue=1;spage=116;epage=121;aulast=Harding
• ISSN: 0970-1591; 1998-3824

Objectives: To summarize the development of a novel non-invasive test to categorize voiding dysfunction in men complaining of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) - the penile cuff test. Methods: The test involves the controlled inflation of a penile cuff during micturition to interrupt voiding and hence estimate isovolumetric bladder pressure (p ves.isv ). The validity, reliability, and clinical usefulness of the test were determined in a number of studies in men with LUTS. Results: The penile cuff test can be successfully performed in over 90% of men with LUTS. The reading of cuff pressure at flow interruption (p cuff.int ) gives a valid and reliable estimate of invasively-measured p ves.isv and when combined with the reading for maximum flow rate obtained during the test (Q max ) produces an accurate categorization of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). Use of this categorization prior to treatment allows improved prediction of outcome from prostatectomy. Conclusion: The penile cuff test fulfils the criteria as a useful clinical measurement technique applicable to the diagnosis and treatment planning of men with LUTS.