Is ultrasound estimation of bladder weight a useful tool in the assessment of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between ultrasound estimation of bladder weight (UEBW), symptoms and urodynamic diagnosis.

METHODS: Women with lower urinary tract symptoms underwent urodynamics studies and measurement of UEBW at a fixed bladder volume.

RESULTS: Women with overactive bladder symptoms had a median UEBW of 48.3 g (95% CI 44-52), with stress urinary incontinence a median UEBW of 35.1 g (95% CI 30-41) and with mixed urinary incontinence a median UEBW of 40.0 g (95% CI 37-43) (p<0.001). Women with detrusor overactivity had a median UEBW of 48.0 g (95% CI 46-51), with urodynamic stress incontinence a median UEBW of 30 g (95% CI 29-31) and detrusor overactivity and urodynamic stress incontinence a median UEBW of 37.3 g (95% CI 33-41) (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: UEBW is higher in women with overactive bladder and detrusor overactivity. UEBW may be a useful tool in women with lower urinary tract symptoms.