[The variability of the leakage pressure threshold due to exertion "the Valsalva Leak Point Pressure" as a function of the filling volume of the bladder].

OBJECTIVE

To determine the influence of the bladder filling volume on the Valsalva Leak Point Pressure (VLPP) in patients investigated for urinary stress incontinence.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

50 patients investigated for urinary stress incontinence were included in this prospective study. Evaluation consisted of clinical examination, urodynamic examination with simultaneous fluoroscopic assessment and cystoscopy. VLPP was measured while standing every 100 cc during filling until the cystomanometric bladder capacity.

RESULTS

We observed a significant reduction of VLPP as a function of bladder filling volume. The VLPP measured at 200 cc constituted the reference value in view of its sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of type III urinary stress incontinence (Blaivas' classification).

CONCLUSION

Measurement of VLPP must be standardized and interpreted as a function of bladder filling volume.