Improved reliability of uroflowmetry investigations: results of a portable home-based uroflowmetry study

摘要

OBJECTIVES: To compare the results obtained using a portable home-based uroflowmeter with the results of traditional flowmetry performed in the out-patient department (OPD). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty-seven patients (mean age 61 years, range 38-79) with lower urinary tract symptoms and/or benign prostatic enlargement used a home-based uroflowmeter comprising a datalogger and specially designed fluid sensors incorporated into disposable beakers. The results of these measurements were compared with those from uroflowmetry in the OPD and with other clinical variables. RESULTS: There was a good correlation between the uroflow results obtained when voiding at home and at the OPD. The highest measured maximum flow and voided volume were obtained with the home-based uroflowmeter system. However, the mean of all consecutive home-based maximum flow and voided volume measurements were lower than those obtained by single-void uroflowmetry in the OPD. CONCLUSIONS: Home-based uroflowmetry provides reliable voiding results which are comparable with those obtained in the OPD