Cystodistension: certainly no standards and possibly no benefits--survey of UK practice.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Cystodistension is not a standardised procedure; however, it is being used for various indications.

METHODS

Four hundred eighty-six questionnaires were posted to consultant gynaecologists, urologists and urogynaecologists in the UK to evaluate the current practice with regards to the indications, technique, benefits and complications of cystodistension.

RESULTS

The response rate was 39%. The analysis of each question was done separately. 58.8% of respondents were urogynaecologists or gynaecologists. The most common indication to perform cystodistension was interstitial cystitis both for diagnosis and treatment followed by reduced bladder capacity (40.7%) and overactive bladder (35.4%). Most of the respondents (96%) performed short-duration distension for <20 minutes.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that cystodistension has a role in practice; however, its indications and benefits are still controversial and there is a wide variation in the technique of cystodistension due to lack of standardisation. Further research is needed before any conclusions about its benefits and safety can be made.