[Urodynamic examination in the investigation of non neurological female urinary incontinence]

Background: Female urinary incontinence raises various physiopathological mechanisms which can be investigated by urodynamics. The aim of this work is to specify the validity and the relevance of the various urodynamic parameters used in clinical practice.

Methods: A bibliographical research was realized on the basis of Medline data from original articles dealing with the incontinence in the absence of genital prolapse.

Conclusions: Urodynamic examination has to contain uroflowmetry, post void residual, filling cystometry with detrusor pressure measurements during micturition, urethral pressure profile with maximal urethral closure pressure (MUCP) and Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP). A urodynamic examination is not necessary before conservative treatment of urinary incontinence in the female. A complete urodynamic examination is recommended before any decision of surgical correction of urinary incontinence and in case of surgical failure.