Prospective Comparison of Free Flow Rate with Flow Rate Obtained following Flexible Cystoscopy

Aims of Study In the investigation of lower urinary tract symptoms many cases can be reliably assessed from a good history and a simple measurement of maximum flow rate (Q-max) alone. To obtain a reliable flow rate patients must void a reasonable volume, as flow is dependent on voided volume [1]. Clinical trials have demonstrated that the reliability of Qmax can be improved by bladder instillation of a fixed volume [2], however it is not generally acceptable to catheterise a patient purely to obtain a urinary flow. Many patients being investigated for lower urinary tract symptoms will require a flexible cystoscopy along with uroflowmetry as part of their work up. This study compares simple uroflowmetry of men before and after flexible cystoscopy.