Mechanical properties of the urethra in females with genuine stress incontinence: Static measurements in the resting urethra

The pressure (P ura )‐cross‐sectional area (CA) relationship in the resting urethra was examined in 30 females with genuine stress incontinence (GSI). Measurements were performed at the bladder neck, in the high‐pressure zone, and in the distal part of the urethra. From the two variables urethral elastance (dP ura /dCA) and hysteresis were calculated. The results were compared with those obtained in normal females. Urethral elastance, hysteresis, and urethral pressure showed significant differences at the three sites of measurement. Urethral elastance was significantly decreased at the bladder neck in patients with GSI as compared to normal women, while the urethral pressure was significantly decreased all along the urethra. It is suggested that both mechanical weakness all along the urethra and decreased deformability of the urethral wall may be of pathophysiologic importance in GSI.