[Urodynamics in Germany: Indications and Application in Urological Hospital and Practice Settings].

BACKGROUND

Urodynamic studies (UDS) are an established diagnostic tool in urology. However, international studies, including those from Germany, indicate a decline in their use. This trend may be attributed to guideline adjustments and changes in indications.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to analyse the current practice and distribution of indications for UDS in urological clinics and practices in Germany.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between March 2023 and October 2023, 259 urological clinics and a representative sample of 280 outpatient urologists nationwide were surveyed about their UDS procedures. Data on methods, personnel and indications were collected.

RESULTS

In all, 80% of clinics and 44% of practices participated. 58% of clinics performed fewer than 100 UDS annually. Only 15% of practices performed UDS themselves. Common procedures such as uroflowmetry (99%) and cystometry (98%) are widely implemented, whereas video urodynamics (53%) are less frequent. The most common indications in clinics are neurogenic bladder dysfunction (24%), overactive bladder (21%) and female stress incontinence (19%). Practices showed similar trends, with neurogenic bladder dysfunction (30%) and overactive bladder (26%) as primary indications. University hospitals and specialized centres performed UDS more often for complex conditions, while non-university clinics frequently addressed stress incontinence.

CONCLUSION

Despite declining numbers, UDS remain central to urological diagnostics. Indication patterns vary by clinic type. These results provide insights into the application of UDS in Germany and underline its important role in urological diagnostics.