What methods are used to diagnose detrusor atony?

The diagnosis of detrusor atony, a condition characterized by a weakened bladder muscle leading to inadequate contraction and impaired urination, typically involves a comprehensive approach. This includes imaging studies to visualize the bladder and assess any abnormalities, neurological examinations to determine if there is an underlying neurological cause affecting bladder function, urinalysis to rule out infections or other urinary issues, and bladder volume assessments to measure the functional capacity of the bladder.

By employing these methods, healthcare providers can gather critical information about the bladder's structure and function, the patient's neurological status, and the presence of any infections, which are important for reaching an accurate diagnosis. Blood tests alone would not provide sufficient information about the functional aspects of the bladder, while physical examination and history-taking are part of a broader diagnostic process but do not provide the necessary specific data. Urinary culture and sensitivity tests, while useful in determining if an infection is present, do not specifically diagnose detrusor atony. Thus, a multifaceted approach is essential for proper diagnosis, making the selected answer the most comprehensive and correct.