Computerized experimental multi-channel urethral pressure profilometry

Pressure profilometry in the urethral sphincter performed with one pressure channel has the disadvantage that radial asymmetry cannot be detected. Multichannel profilometry requires a small catheter, real continuous perfusion and computer-assisted analysis. In female mongrel dogs, three-dimensional images of the urethra could be obtained with a newly developed eight-channel catheter and perfusion pump. Analysis was performed using a personal computer equipped with an 80386 micro-processor. A distinct correlation with the canine urethral anatomy was demonstrated. Computer-assisted multi-channel profilometry proved to be a reliable method.