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Electronic Urine Flow Meter

The Problem

One in three men will suffer from bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) due to prostatic enlargement. Urine flow measurements are invariably the first line of investigation, and therefore the flow rate clinic is a major component of the workload in most urology departments. However, the flow clinic is far from the ideal environment for the test in question. In several centres up to three consecutive measurements are made to obtain representative data, meaning a stay of several hours for most patients. In some cases anxiety leads to the patient not being able to perform at all.

The Solution

The device, designed by the Regional Medical Physics Department, is a portable electronic urine flow meter for home use. Flow measurements can be taken by the patient in his own home and under natural conditions therefore eliminating any apprehension the patient may experience in the urology clinic. The device can be used a number of times thus enabling a truly representative flow to be recorded that has been proven to be clinically more reliable. The device has the potential to streamline the uroflowmetry process and eliminate unnecessary referrals to the urology department, benefiting both staff and patients.
 

The device is the subject of both a granted UK patent and an International patent application. Clinical trials of the device have been conducted and initial results and feedback have been positive. The device was awarded third place in the Innovative Device category at The Bright Ideas in Health Awards 2008. The device has also been awarded funding under the Wellcome Trust Translation Scheme to further develop the product and to conduct an evaluation of its clinical impact.
 
Companies are sought to distribute and manufacture the device under licence.
 

For further details please contact Louise Shaw on 0191 5164400 or email   louise.shaw@nhsinnovationsnorth.org.uk.
 

24/Feb/2010

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