GLOSSARY

Behavioral Modification

Analysis of established patterns of behavior and progressive substitution of healthier behavioral patterns to the old, ineffective, ones. This technique has been proven effective in the treatment of certain cases of incontinence and pelvic pain. It is always a starting point during treatment; occasionally this is all what it takes to resolve the problem.

Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT)

Radiology study that produces body images at predetermined planes: imagine slicing a loaf of bread and seeing the details of each slice. The test is also referred to as Computerized  Tomography (CT), CAT Scan and CT Scan.

Cystoscopy

(Kystis = bladder, and scopo = look) The examination of the internal bladder walls. This exam is usually carried out in the office, with a small instrument that is introduced through the urethra. No anesthesia is required, in most cases. If anesthesia is deemed desirable, local anesthetic techniques are performed.

Cystoscopy with Hydrodistension in General Anesthesia

This technique is performed only in special cases of bladder pain syndrome. The bladder is distended with fluid (hydrodistension) to stretch the walls to maximal capacity.

Defecography

(defaecare = evacuate feces, and grapho = to write) A technique to study with images the elimination of feces from the body. It is indicated in certain cases of prolapse, fecal incontinence or inability to expel feces. It is not painful but requires cooperation. It is performed by radiologists.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Study of the body using variations of the magnetic field. This technique, as well as the CT,  can produces body images at predetermined planes: like slicing through a loaf of bread and seeing the details of each slice.

Pelvic Floor

the complex of muscles and supporting tissues that closes the space at the bottom of the bony pelvis. Rectum, vagina, neck of the uterus and urethra pass through the fibers of this structure.

Post Void Residual (PVR)

This test measures the amount of urine left in the bladder after voiding. It can be performed draining the bladder with a small catheter. More frequently, it is carried out with an ultrasonogram or a doppler instrument, evaluating the bladder content from the outside. It is painless and fast.

Prolapse

(pro = in front, out; and  lapsus = fallen) Hernia that presents as a gulging. The term "Genital Prolapse" refers to hernias of the bladder (cystocele), the rectum (rectocele), the uterus (hysterocele) and the intestinal loops (enterocele), visible as a bulge from the torn pelvic floor.

Pyelography

(pyelos = oblong container, and grapho = to write) A study that produces images of the collecting system that brings urine from the kidneys to the bladder. It is a radiology study performed after injecting in the veins a special dye that is eliminated by the kidneys into the urine (Intra Venous Pyelography = IVP).

Ultrasonogram (USG)

Also called sonogram or ultrasound, is a non invasive method to visualize internal organs utilizing sound waives. Depending on what needs to be visualized, it can be performed with probes that are applied to the skin or introduced in the vagina, rectum or urethra. It is painless, but might require some time when the structures to visualize are complex.

Urodynamics (UDS)

(ouron = urine, and dymamis = power) Is a complex investigation of the urine storage and urine elimination mechanisms. It is indicated when simpler tests cannot explain the cause of urinary incontinence. It is almost always indicated if surgery for urinary incontinence or prolapse is considered. It might be helpful in clarifying the origin of chronic pain, inability to empty the bladder, abnormalities of the urinary stream. The test measures the pressures inside and around the bladder while it is being filled with fluid and during urination. It is not painful but it requires between 15 and 30 minutes to perform.

Uroflow

Measures the strength or the urine stream, its duration and interruptions. It can be performed by itself (Free Uroflow) or as part of the urodynamics (Intubated Uroflow). It can be performed with a rudimentary instrument (Simple Uroflow) or with a computerized one that correlates all measurements (Complex Uroflow).

Voiding Diary (VD)

"Voiding" (to discharge body waist) is often used in medicine instead of "urinating". VD is the measuring of urine volume at each urination, for 24 or more hours. Urination time, volume and difficulties are recorded on a special form that is reviewed with the caregiver. Often, it is also required to record time, kind and quantity of beverages. It is indispensable to understand ones incontinence or frequent urination. It is also used to monitor and document progress.