Biofeedback in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in children

Abstract

Introduction. Bladder and bowel dysfunction describes a large spectrum of lower urinary tract symptoms along with fecal elimination issues. The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of biofeedback treatment in children with lower urinary tract symptoms. Material and Methods. A prospective study analyzed the effects of biofeedback treatment conducted in children with lower urinary tract symptoms. Questionnaires and voiding diaries were collected prior to the treatment. The patients were followed for two weeks on daily basis. After the completion of the treatment, the data from voiding diaries and questionnaires were analyzed. Results. A total of 18 children were referred for biofeedback treatment. Seven patients had an overactive bladder. seven had isolated dysfunctional voiding, and in the third group three had difficulties starting to void and one had daily incontinence with dysfunctional voiding. A total of 14 patients presented with improvement of symptoms. The analyzed data showed no measurable improvement in one patient, even though he reported a personal feeling of improvement. Three patients without positive effects of the therapy were immature and non-cooperative. In six out of seven patients with overactive bladder with urine leakage, the symptom disappeared by the end of the treatment. Conclusion. Biofeedback is a very useful tool in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in pediatric population. Although the main indication for initiating this therapy is dysfunctional voiding, the study showed an improvement of symptoms in patients with overactive bladder as well.