General

Synonym/Acronym:
Electrodiagnostic study, rectal electromyography.

Rationale
To assess urinary sphincter electrical activity to assist with diagnosis of urinary incontinence.

Patient Preparation
There are no food or activity restrictions unless by medical direction. Under medical direction, the patient should avoid muscle relaxants, cholinergics, and anticholinergics for 3 to 6 days before the test. Instruct the patient to abstain from smoking and drinking caffeine-containing beverages for 3 hr before the procedure. Protocols may vary among facilities.

Normal Findings

• Normal urinary and anal sphincter muscle function; increased electromyographic signals during the filling of the urinary bladder and at the conclusion of voiding; absence of signals during the actual voiding; no incontinence.

Critical Findings and Potential Interventions
N/A