A bladder scan is a medical procedure that uses ultrasound technology to measure the volume of urine within the bladder. This non-invasive method provides a quick and painless way to assess bladder function and fluid retention. Healthcare professionals commonly use this technology in various clinical settings to gain insights into a patient’s urinary health.
Understanding the Purpose
Bladder scans serve several important functions in healthcare. A key application is evaluating urinary retention, which is the inability to completely empty the bladder. This includes measuring post-void residual (PVR) volume, the amount of urine left in the bladder immediately after urination. High PVR volumes can indicate issues such as bladder outlet obstruction, weak bladder muscles, or nerve damage affecting bladder control.
Bladder scans also help in diagnosing the causes of urinary incontinence, involuntary urine leakage. They are useful for monitoring bladder function in patients with medical conditions that impact bladder control, such as neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, and an enlarged prostate. The scan guides decisions regarding the necessity of catheterization, a procedure to drain urine, thereby reducing the risk of associated infections and discomfort.
The Bladder Scan Procedure
Performing a bladder scan involves using specialized equipment. The device typically consists of a handheld probe connected to a display screen that shows the ultrasound images and calculated volume. Portable bladder scanners are common, allowing for bedside assessment in various healthcare environments.
Patient preparation for a bladder scan is minimal and focuses on ensuring comfort and optimal imaging conditions. The patient usually lies flat on their back, and the lower abdomen is exposed to allow for proper probe placement.
The procedure begins with applying a generous amount of ultrasound gel to the patient’s lower abdomen. This gel helps to transmit the sound waves from the probe into the body and ensures clear image quality. The healthcare provider, often a nurse or medical assistant, then places the handheld probe on the gel-covered skin.
The probe is angled slightly downward, towards the pelvic cavity, to visualize the bladder. The device uses sound waves to create a 3D image of the bladder, automatically calculating its volume. The operator may need to take multiple readings from slightly different angles or fan the probe to ensure accuracy and a comprehensive view.
What Bladder Scan Results Indicate
The results of a bladder scan are typically displayed in milliliters (mL). For adults, a post-void residual (PVR) volume of less than 50 mL is generally considered normal, indicating efficient bladder emptying. However, some sources suggest that up to 100 mL may be acceptable, particularly in older adults due to natural changes in bladder elasticity.
Higher PVR volumes can suggest incomplete bladder emptying. A PVR between 100 mL and 200 mL may warrant further evaluation, while volumes consistently above 200 mL are often considered abnormal and can indicate urinary retention. Very high volumes, such as over 300 mL or 400 mL, are strongly suggestive of significant urinary retention, which can be caused by various factors including an enlarged prostate, nerve damage, or medication side effects.
Healthcare providers interpret these results alongside the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic information. For instance, an elevated PVR might lead to further tests like urodynamic studies or imaging to identify the underlying cause. The information gained from a bladder scan is instrumental in guiding diagnosis, informing treatment plans, and monitoring the effectiveness of interventions for various urinary conditions.