The value of compression during excretion voiding urethrography.

Voiding urethrography with compression of the urethral meatus was evaluated as part of excretory urography in patients with symptoms involving the lower urinary tract. Meatal compression permits distension of the urethra distal to any area of increased resistance to flow, obviating the need for retrograde urethrography. The examination can be performed as part of routine excretory urography and avoids the hazards of urethral catheterization.

Criteria for examination of the urethra during excretory urography.

Of 2,234 patients, 97 (4.3%) had symptoms suggesting of urethral diseases, and underwent excretory voiding urethrography (EVU) as part of their excretory urographic examination. Successful EVU examinations were obtained in 84 (87%); 43 (51%) had abnormal findings; 29 (34%) were normal; and 12 (12%) were considered probably normal, with no further study required.