Prototype system for enhancing cystometric analysis with special emphasis on the pediatric population

Background and Purpose: A urodynamic test system of improved accuracy and r eliability was developed and implemented for enhancing cystometry. This sys tem integrates known medical information, including the specialized problem s of pediatric urodynamics, with the cystometric and imaging data. Methods: After the requirements for the ideal cystometrogram test unit were established, a system was constructed, calibrated, and implemented in clin ical practice. The patient's age, size, and sex are used to produce a patie nt-specific pressure-volume template for the cystometrogram test. Results: This template showed the minimal and normal bladder capacities and the physiologically safe, equivocal, and dangerous pressure fields coded w ith symbolic colors. Different time averages of the pressure data were used to show bladder factors such as compliance and instability. The templates with data were presented automatically (therefore objectively) without oper ator intervention on monitors during testing and as printed copies on compl etion. Conclusions: The presentation of data in an easily understood format facili tates effective communication between the urologist, referring physician, a nd patient. Some of the physiological and statistical problems in pediatric urodynamic testing are efficiently and accurately resolved by this system, resulting in better analysis and diagnostic capabilities.