Post-Void Residual (PVR) Testing is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination. This test helps evaluate bladder function and identify conditions like urinary retention, which can occur due to bladder muscle weakness, nerve dysfunction, or obstruction.

How is PVR Testing Done?

1. Non-Invasive Method (Bladder Scanner):

   • A handheld ultrasound device is placed on the abdomen to estimate the remaining urine volume.

   • Quick, painless, and commonly used in clinics.

2. Invasive Method (Catheterization):

   • A thin tube (catheter) is inserted into the bladder to drain and measure leftover urine.

   • More accurate but carries a slight risk of infection.

Why is PVR Testing Performed?

• Diagnose urinary retention (inability to empty the bladder fully).

• Assess conditions like enlarged prostate (BPH), neurogenic bladder, or urinary incontinence.

• Monitor effectiveness of treatments for bladder dysfunction.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

• Normal PVR: Less than 50 mL (some sources say <100 mL).

• Concerning PVR: 100-200 mL may indicate mild retention.

• Abnormal PVR: Over 200 mL suggests significant retention, requiring further evaluation.

Conditions Associated with High PVR

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

• Spinal cord injuries or nerve damage (neurogenic bladder)

• Diabetes (diabetic bladder dysfunction)

• Urinary tract obstructions (strictures, tumors)

How to Prepare for a Post-Void Residual (PVR) Test

Preparing for a Post-Void Residual (PVR) test is simple, but following these steps ensures accurate results:

1. Before the Test

• Drink Normally: You don’t need to fast or restrict fluids before the test. In fact, having a comfortably full bladder helps.

• Avoid Excessive Fluid Intake Right Before: Don’t overdrink right before the test, as this could artificially increase bladder volume.

• Empty Your Bladder Completely When Instructed: When you arrive, you’ll be asked to urinate normally before the test. Try to empty your bladder as much as possible.

2. During the Test

• For Ultrasound (Bladder Scan):

  • You’ll lie down, and a technician will apply gel to your lower abdomen.

  • A handheld ultrasound device will scan your bladder to measure leftover urine.

  • No special preparation needed.

• For Catheterization (Less Common):

  • The healthcare provider will clean the urethral area before inserting a thin, flexible tube to drain and measure residual urine.

  • May feel slight discomfort but is usually quick.

3. After the Test

• No recovery time is needed for a bladder scan.

• If a catheter was used, you might feel mild irritation, but this usually resolves quickly.

• You can resume normal activities immediately.