A bladder scan is a common medical procedure that provides insights into bladder function. It offers a non-invasive way for healthcare providers to assess the amount of urine within the bladder. This test is often utilized to help diagnose various urinary issues and assists medical professionals in making informed decisions about patient care.
What is a Bladder Scan?
A bladder scan uses ultrasound technology to create an image of the bladder and measure its urine volume. High-frequency sound waves travel into the body, reflect off tissues and fluids, and their echoes are converted into a visual representation on a screen. This non-invasive method means it does not involve inserting instruments, like catheters, nor does it use radiation. The process is generally quick and painless, providing immediate results.
Why is a Bladder Scan Performed?
Bladder scans evaluate bladder function. A common use is to measure post-void residual (PVR) volume, the urine remaining after emptying. This helps determine if the bladder is emptying completely or if urinary retention is present. Urinary retention can result from blockages, weak bladder muscles, or nerve problems.
The scan also helps decide if catheterization, draining urine with a tube, is necessary. Accurately assessing bladder volume avoids unnecessary catheterizations, reducing infection risk and discomfort. Bladder scans also monitor function after surgeries, particularly pelvic ones, where anesthesia or pain medications can cause temporary urinary retention. This allows for timely intervention and smoother post-operative recovery.
What to Expect During a Bladder Scan
The bladder scan procedure is simple and causes minimal discomfort. You will lie down on an examination table. A healthcare professional applies a clear gel to your lower abdomen, between your belly button and pubic bone. This gel helps transmit ultrasound waves between the handheld device (transducer or probe) and your skin.
The technician gently moves the probe across your lower abdomen; you may feel slight pressure. The device emits sound waves and captures reflections to display images and volume measurements. The entire scan usually takes 5 to 15 minutes. Sometimes, you may be asked to empty your bladder, then have the scan repeated to measure post-void residual volume.
Understanding Bladder Scan Results
The results of a bladder scan are typically presented as a numerical volume, usually in milliliters (mL), indicating the amount of urine in the bladder. For post-void residual (PVR) volume, a measurement less than 50 mL is generally considered normal in healthy adults, indicating efficient bladder emptying. A PVR between 50 mL and 100 mL may also be acceptable, especially in older adults due to age-related changes in bladder elasticity.
Volumes consistently greater than 100 mL to 200 mL can suggest incomplete bladder emptying. A PVR volume over 200 mL is generally considered abnormal and may indicate urinary retention. If the volume exceeds 400 mL, it often points to significant urinary retention, which might require immediate medical attention, such as catheterization. Healthcare providers interpret these results in the context of a patient’s overall symptoms and medical history to determine the appropriate next steps, which could include further investigation or treatment.