Use of fetal cardiotocographic monitor in the evaluation of urinary incontinence.

Thirty-five women (mean age 52 years, mean parity 3) were evaluated consecutively for urinary incontinence. Stability of the bladder was evaluated by standing provocative water urethrocystometry, using a microtip pressure transducer and a multichannel electrophysiologic recorder. Cystometry was repeated immediately after emptying of the bladder. Second cystometry (standing provocative) was performed using a fetal cardiotocographic monitor for pressure recording. The simple cystometry (using the cardiotocograph technique) was very sensitive when evaluating women with a stable bladder (n = 25) and less sensitive when detecting bladder instability (n = 10). We conclude that the use of this simple technique is a viable option if urodynamic equipment is unavailable. There is no need for further evaluation in patients with findings of a stable bladder, but if bladder instability is detected, further in-depth evaluation is required.