Application of transrectal power doppler ultrasound in the prediction of corrected maximal uroflow rate

Background: A reliable interpretation of uroflowmetry depends on adequate voiding volume. Unfortunately, many patients may not be in a position to void enough volume to allow an effective interpretation. The main objective of this study was to determine how a valuable uroflow rate can be obtained with an inadequate or even no voiding volume. We have tried to develop a new method to predict the actual uroflow rate by adding power Doppler information during transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) in patients who do not have an interpretable voiding volume. Patients and Methods: Fifty-five patients with complete uroflowmetry and TRUS with power Doppler study were enrolled. Analyses of the uroflowmetry and power Doppler parameters were performed. Correlation coefficients were calculated to reveal the relationships among these parameters. Results: The correlation coefficient between the prostate intracapsular pulsatility index (PI) and corrected peak flow rate (cQ_max) was -0.79. Correlation between the PI of vessels outside the prostate and cQ_max was not significant, as the intracapsular PI was. We generated a linear regression equation, cQ_max = 0.8911 × PI + 14.569, to predict cQ_max by intracapsular PI. This equation can be applied when adequate spontaneous voiding is not available. Conclusion: TRUS is info rmative when power Doppler parameters are applied. Corrected peak uroflow rate can be predicted even in patients who have an inadequate or no voiding volume.