A bladder scan is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses ultrasound technology to create images of the bladder. High-frequency sound waves are sent into the bladder area, and their echoes are translated into a black-and-white image on a screen, allowing visualization of the bladder’s internal structure and contents. It offers a quick, painless, and safe way to assess bladder function without requiring incisions or invasive tools.
Key Information Provided by a Bladder Scan
A bladder scan collects data on the amount of urine within the bladder, providing two main measurements: bladder volume and post-void residual (PVR) volume. Bladder volume indicates how much urine is currently held in the bladder, often measured when the bladder is full. This initial measurement helps assess the bladder’s capacity and filling status.
The post-void residual (PVR) volume represents the amount of urine remaining in the bladder immediately after a person has attempted to urinate. A PVR volume of less than 50 mL indicates adequate bladder emptying, while 200 mL or more suggests incomplete emptying.
These measurements assess bladder function and identify potential issues with urine storage and emptying. An elevated PVR volume can signal incomplete bladder emptying, which could lead to various urinary problems.
Common Conditions Identified
Based on the measurements obtained, particularly the PVR volume, a bladder scan helps identify several medical conditions. A high PVR volume can indicate urinary retention, which is the inability to fully empty the bladder. This condition can be acute, appearing suddenly, or chronic, developing over time.
Incomplete bladder emptying, often linked to elevated PVR, can be a symptom of various underlying issues. For men, an enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common cause of bladder outlet obstruction, leading to urine retention. Bladder stones or urethral strictures, which narrow the urethra, can also contribute to this obstruction.
A bladder scan can also assist in identifying a neurogenic bladder, a condition where nerve problems affect bladder control, often seen in individuals with conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or spinal cord injuries. Additionally, it can help evaluate certain types of urinary incontinence by showing how well the bladder empties. While a PVR volume greater than 300 mL in symptomatic patients or 500 mL in asymptomatic patients generally indicates urinary retention, clinicians consider symptoms and individual patient factors for diagnosis and management.