Which pattern on uroflowmetry best indicates incomplete bladder emptying?

Which pattern on uroflowmetry best indicates incomplete bladder emptying?

• A. Intermittent flow pattern
• B. Explosive flow pattern
• C. Long, smooth flow
• D. Continuous flow with no interruption

Answer: (A)

Intermittent flow on uroflowmetry signals that urine flow is not maintained as a single, continuous surge. This pattern shows pauses during voiding, which suggests the bladder cannot sustain a consistent detrusor contraction or encounters transient resistance. Those interruptions mean the bladder isn’t emptying smoothly, often leaving residual urine behind, which is the hallmark of incomplete bladder emptying. In contrast, an explosive flow reflects a strong, rapid void with a high peak and rapid rise, typical of good detrusor contractility and effective emptying. A long, smooth flow indicates a steady, uninterrupted void, usually signifying adequate emptying. Continuous flow with no interruption also points to a steady stream, not the fragmented pattern seen with incomplete emptying.

Intermittent flow on uroflowmetry signals that urine flow is not maintained as a single, continuous surge. This pattern shows pauses during voiding, which suggests the bladder cannot sustain a consistent detrusor contraction or encounters transient resistance. Those interruptions mean the bladder isn’t emptying smoothly, often leaving residual urine behind, which is the hallmark of incomplete bladder emptying.

In contrast, an explosive flow reflects a strong, rapid void with a high peak and rapid rise, typical of good detrusor contractility and effective emptying. A long, smooth flow indicates a steady, uninterrupted void, usually signifying adequate emptying. Continuous flow with no interruption also points to a steady stream, not the fragmented pattern seen with incomplete emptying.