A Disposable Uroflowmeter for Recording of Maximum Flow Rate

Abstract

A disposable urinary flowmeter (Peakometer®) was evaluated in regard to accuracy of measurement and acceptability by patients. Laboratory tests of measurement accuracy were made with five Peakometers as recordings of maximum flow rate and voided volume. The accuracy was found to be acceptable. A minimum voided volume of 200 ml is recommended for a reasonably exact recording of maximum flow rate. Ten patients aged 28–86 years tested the acceptability of the Peakometer. All were able to use the apparatus correctly and to register maximum flow rate and voided volume of urine in accordance with written standardized instructions. The disposable flowmeter can be recommended for patients who live far from their hospital, thus saving time and transport costs. Clinics with relatively few patients requiring urinary flow studies may use the disposable flowmeters, instead of investing in relatively expensive electronic apparatus.