The effect of biofeedback on nonneurological dysfunctional voiding in children: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Abstract

OBJECTIVEThis study was conducted to investigate the effect of biofeedback (BF) on the rehabilitation of children with nonneurological dysfunctional voiding (NDV). METHODSRCTs were retrieved from various databases (published from inception to February 29, 2024). The effects of the BF and non-BF treatments were compared. A random-effects model was used to evaluate the combined data. RESULTSMeta-analysis revealed that BF increased the maximum urinary flow rate (SMD =3.78, 95% CI 1.33∼6.22), improved urination time (SMD = 5.88, 95% CI 3.75∼8.01), and reduced the postvoid residual (SMD = -19.18, 95% CI -27.03∼-11.33) and urinary tract infection incidence (RR = 0.43, 95% CI 0.21∼0.87). Electromyogram activity (RR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.25∼0.84) and abnormal urination patterns (RR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.35∼0.74) improved, with effects persisting for more than 1 year. However, the effect of BF on the mean urinary flow rate in children with NDV was significant only after 1 year of follow-up (SMD = 1.90, 95% CI 0.87∼2.92). CONCLUSIONExisting evidence indicates that BF can enhance urinary parameters and patterns in children with NDV. However, its effectiveness in addressing constipation, daytime urinary incontinence, and nocturnal urinary incontinence is not substantial. High-quality randomized controlled trials can offer additional insights.