UROVAL BCR TEST

A surgeon is operating on a patient in an operating room.

What is the BCR?

The Bulbocavernosus reflex (BCR) is an indicator of sacral nerve function. The sacral nerve is connected to the urogenital area and can impact ones urinary, fecal, and sexual functioning. UroVal replaces the clinical standard for testing BCR. The clinical standard for evaluating the BCR is a manual exam that consists of inserting a finger into the anus and then squeezing the genitalia in order to elicit the anal wink. The results of this manual technique are limited to determining the presence or absence of the reflex.  Other currently available techniques that provide measurable BCR results include electromyographic testing that involves electrical stimulation and inserting a finger into the external anal sphincter.


A surgeon is operating on a patient in an operating room.

What is the BCR?

The Bulbocavernosus reflex (BCR) is an indicator of sacral nerve function. The sacral nerve is connected to the urogential area and can impact ones urinary, fecal, and sexual functioning. UroVal replaces the clinical standard for testing BCR. The clinical standard for evaluating the BCR is a manual exam that consists of inserting a finger into the anus, and then squeezing the genitalia in order to elicit the anal wink. The results of this manual technique are limited to determining the presence or absence of the reflex.  Other currently available techniques that provide measurable BCR results include electromyographic testing that involves electrical stimulation and inserting a finger into the external anal sphincter.


UroVal does NOT require electrical stimulation or any anal insertion

Your Health Care Provider has ordered a test to evaluate the nerve function to your bladder. This will help determine the reason for your bladder not working properly. 


This test usually takes about 20 minutes from the time your visit starts. What to expect during the test: The healthcare staff will dry the rectal area with gauze or tissue. Two band aide like devices called electrodes will be placed on the skin. One on each side of the anus. If there is excessive hair it may be trimmed or shaved to allow for good contact with the skin. An electrode will also be placed on your thigh area. A small amount of gel is placed on the electrode and may cause a cool sensation. Tape may also be placed on the electrode to help with adherence.


Your healthcare provider will then explain there will be a touching sensation on your genital area with a wand like device. This touch tests a reflex to see if it is normal or abnormal. An abnormal latency time (time from which the touch occurs to when the rectal area squeezes) would indicate there could be nerve damage causing your symptoms. This assists your Healthcare Provider in determining your treatment plan.