Whitaker test
Pronunciation: WHIT-ah-ker
A pressure-flow study used to distinguish obstructive from non-obstructive urinary tract dilation.
Full Definition
The Whitaker test is a specialized urological investigation that measures pressure differentials across the ureteropelvic junction or other potential sites of urinary tract obstruction. The procedure involves percutaneous puncture of the renal pelvis, infusion of contrast material at a constant rate, and simultaneous measurement of renal pelvic and bladder pressures. A pressure differential greater than 15 cmH2O suggests significant obstruction requiring intervention. While invasive, the Whitaker test remains valuable for equivocal cases where other imaging studies are inconclusive in determining functional significance of anatomical abnormalities.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize 'Whitaker' as it is an eponym; specify pressure measurements in cmH2O.
In Context
- "A Whitaker test was performed to assess the functional significance of the UPJ narrowing." — Diagnostic procedure note
- "The Whitaker test confirmed significant obstruction with pressures exceeding 20 cmH2O." — Test results interpretation