Uroflowmetry is the most common urodynamic test performed by urologists to assess the function of the lowerurinary tract. This simple non-invasive study measures urinary flow rates and when summarized graphicallyoffers insights into various types of lower urinary tract symptoms. Current systems call upon a patient to voidinto a commode with a funnel to direct the flow of urine into a vessel placed on a digital scale which in turndrives its output into a processor. The processor is connected to a printer which produces summary datasuch as voided volume, peak flow, average flow, total void time, as well as a graphical representation of theflow curve anywhere from 20-30 seconds after the void is initiated or completed. The physician or theirassistant will then empty the vessel, and the system can be used again. Traditionally the paper containing theprinted collected data was filed into a paper chart. Today this tracing is taped to a 2nd paper containing thepatient's name and medical record number, and this is scanned into the electronic record as an image and thedata become non-searchable. Given this labor intense process, conventional uroflowmetry is ripe fordisruptive innovation.We offer a hardware and software solution to these logistical problems. At this time our patent pendingprototype uroflowmeter offers the following
Benefits: 1) it can be used with any regular toilet (meaning it canbe used in an office setting or at home, and it can be used by both males and females), 2) it empties itself,and 3) the data are acquired in real time, and collected on a smart phone or tablet. In this application we seeksupport to develop the software that will allow this device to drive its data elements and the graphicalsummary into a set flowsheet in the electronic medical record where all uroflows will be stored. This will allowfor a physician to review multiple flows over time to monitor a patient's progress without having to open upeach individual image. Once this system is fully operational we envision this system being used in office andhome settings, and playing a role in drug trials that assess lower urinary tract symptoms. The instantaneousdetection of flow rate also means it has the potential for future applications in biofeedback training for selectedpatients with specific lower urinary tract symptoms.
Public Health Relevance Statement: Lay Summary
Uroflowmetry or the measurement of the speed of urine flow rates remains the most common tool by which
urologists can assess the health of the lower urinary tract. Current methods of measurement are time
consuming, rely upon paper records, and are limited to the office. We offer a new system that can be used on
any regular toilet in the office or home that will transmit the flow data wirelessly into the electronic medical
record.
Project Terms: <21+ years old>
