Pediatric urodynamics: basic concepts for the neurosurgeon.

A great deal of information about overall bladder and urethral function can be obtained with the utilization of urodynamics. Urodynamics itself does not constitute a single test but more precisely the acquisition of multiple interconnected data combined to give an overall study of the storage and emptying phases of the bladder, function of the urethra, as well as the activity of the pelvic floor musculature. Urodynamic investigation represents one of the few reliable objective tests available to help guide therapy for the neurosurgeon. The authors review the various urodynamic tests most often utilized by pediatric urologists and discuss interpretation pitfalls with respect to interobserver variability. Technical aspects of the study are described along with normal and abnormal findings.