Bladder Bowel Dysfunction Research Articles

Surgical Outcomes of Patients with Benign Spinal Tumors: Insights from A Prospective Quasi Experimental Study

Background: Spinal tumor is one of the causes of back pain, sensory motor deficit and bowel bladder dysfunction. Evaluation of postoperative mortality, morbidity and outcomes after resection of spinal cord tumors is critical to the practice of evidencebased medicine. Hence, it is important to carefully examine surgical outcomes at an institutional level. Objectives: The aim of the study was to describe the results of benign spinal tumor after surgical treatment according to location. Materials & Method: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery, Chittagong Medical College and Hospital for a period of 12 months. Twenty eight cases of benign spinal tumor underwent surgical treatment were enrolled in the study. Average hospital stay from surgery to discharge was 12-15 days. Postoperative neurological outcome in Frankel’s grade and bowel bladder involvement were assessed from 1st POD to 3rd month after surgery and data were recorded at 7th POD, 1st month and 3rd month after surgery. Collected data were analyzed by using SPSS-23. Results: Among the 28 cases, 15 were men and 13 were women. The mean age was 36.19 (±14.29) years and age range was 15 to 62 years. Twenty three (82.14%) patients improved by at least one Frankel grade and remaining five (17.86%) patients maintained their preoperative Frankel grade. Out of eight (28.6%) cases with absent bowel bladder dysfunction before surgery six (75%) recovered within three months. Postoperative deterioration was not observed in any of the included case. Ten (35.7%) patients had excellent outcome (having Frankel grade E with normal bowel bladder control) and 18 patients (64.3%) had good/fair outcome (partial recovery or clinically insignificant recovery) after 3 months. Age, gender and location (axial and sagittal) of benign spinal tumor were not found to have significant variation of neurological outcome. Conclusion: Majority of patients irrespective of the location (axial/sagittal) of the tumor had a favorable clinical outcome three months after the operation. Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 130-139

Risk factors for preoperative neurological impairment in patients with spinal meningioma: A retrospective multicenter study

BackgroundPatients with spinal meningioma may present preoperatively with paralysis and sensory deficits. However, there is a paucity of detailed evaluations and a lack of consensus regarding imaging findings that are predictive of neurological symptoms in patients with spinal meningioma. MethodsHerein, a total of 55 patients who underwent surgical resection of spinal meningiomas in eight hospitals between 2011 and 2021 were enrolled. Patient characteristics, degree of muscle weakness, sensory disturbances, and the presence of bowel/bladder dysfunction (BBD) before surgical treatment were evaluated using medical records. Patients with American Spinal Injury Impairment Scale grades A-C and the presence of BBD were classified into the paralysis (+) group. Patients with sensory disturbances were assigned to the sensory disturbance (+) group. Based on magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomography images, the tumor location was classified according to the spinal level and its attachment to the dura mater. To evaluate tumor size, the tumor occupation ratio (OR) was calculated using the area and distance measurement method in horizontal MR images, and the maximum length and area of the tumor in the sagittal plane were measured. ResultsOf all patients, 85 % were women. The mean age of patients at surgery was 69.7 years. Twenty-eight (51 %) and 41 (75 %) patients were classified into the paralysis (+) and sensory disturbance (+) groups, respectively. The average tumor length and area in the sagittal plane were 19.6 mm and 203 mm2, respectively; OR-area and diameters were 70.3 % and 72.3 %, respectively. In univariate analyses, tumor length and area in the sagittal plane were significant risk factors for paralysis. OR-diameter, symptom duration, and a low MIB-1 index correlated with sensory disturbances. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the area and length of the tumor in the sagittal plane were significantly correlated with paralysis, whereas the OR-diameter and symptom duration significantly correlated with sensory disturbances. The cut-off values for the area and length of the tumor in the sagittal plane to predict paralysis were 243 mm2 and 20.1 mm, respectively. ConclusionsPreoperative paralysis in patients with spinal meningiomas was significantly associated with sagittal tumor size than with high tumor occupancy in the horizontal plane. Sensory disturbances were associated with high occupancy in the horizontal plane. Patients with spinal meningiomas > 20 mm in length or 243 mm2 in area in the sagittal plane are at risk of developing paralysis and could be considered for surgery even in the absence of paralysis.

Commentary on bowel bladder dysfunction in control children in a pediatric urology office. Ref Rodriguez P, Rehfuss A, Adam Howe A, Giramonti K, Feustel PJ, Kogan BA (J Ped Urol, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpurol.2024.04.023)

Commentary on bowel bladder dysfunction in control children in a pediatric urology office. Ref Rodriguez P, Rehfuss A, Adam Howe A, Giramonti K, Feustel PJ, Kogan BA (J Ped Urol, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpurol.2024.04.023)

Outcome of Surgical Intervention of Spinal Tuberculosis Patients

Background: Spinal tuberculosis is approximately 2% of all cases of tuberculosis. Both conservative and surgical management are practiced for its management worldwide. However, surgical management has excellent outcome. Objectives: The aim of the study was to document the clinical and neurological outcomes of surgical intervention of spinal tuberculosis patients getting admitted in a tertiary care hospital of Bangladesh. Materials & Method: This hospital based interventional study was conducted in the department of Neurosurgery, Chittagong Medical College and Hospital for a period of 12 months. Thirty-two cases with spinal tuberculosis underwent surgical intervention were enrolled in the study. All patients were treated with standard anti- TB drugs pre and postoperatively and were followed up regularly after surgery for 3 months. Neurological function and pain were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively by Frankel’s grade scale and visual analogue scale (VAS) respectively. Post operative outcomes were finally assessed 3 months after operation. Results: Out of 32 cases, 2 were lost to follow up. Among the available 30 cases, 16 were men and 14 were women. The mean age was 36.10 (±13.70) years and age range were 18 to 65 years. At the final follow-up, the VAS score significantly improved from 6.97 (±1.87) preoperatively to 1.43 (±0.89) postoperatively (P < 0.001) and all patients became pain free, with final VAS score 0-3. At the final follow-up, the ESR and CRP significantly improved from preoperative status (P < 0.001). Twenty-nine (96.7%) patients improved by at least one Frankel grade and remaining one (3.3%) patient maintained their preoperative Frankel grade. Post operative deterioration was not observed in any of the included case. Out of 11 cases with bowel bladder dysfunction before surgery 10 (90.9%) recovered within three months. Conclusion: Surgical intervention was safe and had satisfactory results in terms of symptomatic and neurological improvement. Bang. J Neurosurgery 2023; 12(2): 94-101

Ultrasound-based predictive indicators for treatment outcomes in pediatric vesicoureteral reflux

PurposeTo evaluate the effectiveness of preoperative ultrasound (US) measurements in predicting pediatric vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) treatment outcomes.MethodsThis prospective study enrolled 35 patients (53 renal units) aged 1–16 years who underwent subureteric injection therapy for primary VUR between July 2020 and June 2022. Preoperative ultrasound examinations measured the bladder wall thickness at the ureteral orifice, ureteral submucosal tunnel length, distal ureteral diameter, patient demographics, VUR grade, presenting complaints, bladder–bowel dysfunction, and renal scarring, and the impact of these variables on treatment success was analyzed.ResultsAmong the patients, 91.4% were female, with a mean age of 6.83 ± 3.84 years. A comparison between the treatment success and failure groups revealed no significant differences in the age, sex, VUR grade, laterality, bilaterality, presenting complaints, bladder–bowel dysfunction, bladder wall thickness, or distal ureteral diameter (p > 0.05). However, renal scarring occurred in 16 (38.1%) patients in the treatment success group and 10 (90.9%) in the treatment failure group (p = 0.002). The treatment failure group had shorter detrusor-to-ureteral orifice distances and smaller detrusor-ureteral orifice distance-to-distal ureteral diameter (D/U) ratios than that of the success group (p = 0.004 and p = 0.006, respectively). Patients with a detrusor-to-ureteral orifice distance < 7.4 mm had an 81.82% likelihood of treatment failure.ConclusionUltrasound measurements of the detrusor-to-ureteral orifice distance and D/U ratio proved reliable in predicting the success of endoscopic subureteric injection therapy for VUR.

Disparities in Indications and Outcomes Reporting for Spinal Column Shortening for Tethered Cord Syndrome: The Need for a Standardized Approach.

Systematic review. To identify commonly reported indications and outcomes in spinal column shortening (SCS) procedures. SCS is a surgical procedure used in patients with tethered cord syndrome (TCS)-characterized by abnormal attachment of neural components to surrounding tissues-to shorten the vertebral column, release tension on the spinal cord/neural elements, and alleviate associated symptoms. PubMed and EMBASE searches captured SCS literature published between 1950 and 2023. Prospective/retrospective cohort studies and case series were included without age limit or required follow-up period. Review articles without new patient presentations, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, conference abstracts, and letters were excluded. Studies included adult and pediatric patients. The 29 identified studies represented 278 patients (age 5-76y). In 24.1% of studies, patients underwent primary TCS intervention via SCS. In 41.4% of studies, patients underwent SCS after failed previous primary detethering (24.1% of studies were mixed and 10.3% were unspecified). The most commonly reported non-genitourinary/bowel surgical indications were back pain (55.2%), lower-extremity pain (48.3%), lower-extremity weakness (48.3%), lower-extremity numbness (34.5%), and lower-extremity motor dysfunction (34.5%). Genitourinary/bowel symptoms were most often described as nonspecific bladder dysfunction (58.6%), bladder incontinence (34.5%), and bowel dysfunction (31.0%). After SCS, non-genitourinary/bowel outcomes included lower-extremity pain (44.8%), back pain (31.0%), and lower-extremity sensory and motor function (both 31.0%). Bladder dysfunction (79.3%), bowel dysfunction (34.5%), and bladder incontinence (13.8%) were commonly reported genitourinary/bowel outcomes. In total, 40 presenting surgical indication categories and 33 unique outcome measures were reported across studies. Seventeen of the 278 patients (6.1%) experienced a complication. The SCS surgical literature displays variability in operative indications and postoperative outcomes. The lack of common reporting mechanisms impedes higher-level analysis. A standardized outcomes measurement tool, encompassing both patient-reported outcome measures and objective metrics, is necessary. Level 4.

Vesicoureteral Reflux Fixed; Kidneys Not Fixed! – A Case Series

ABSTRACT Surgery is advocated in high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children (grades 4 and 5) to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and prevent kidney damage. Recent studies have shown that the risk of recurrent UTIs is minimal, even with conservative management. In the three cases presented here, reimplantation of the ureters was done to abolish high-grade VUR. Yet these children have abnormal kidney function and proteinuria on long-term follow-up (10 years and more), though kidney function was normal at the time of surgery. The surgical procedures to correct the high-grade VUR do not preclude the kidney damage entirely. These children often are born with dysplastic kidneys. The outcome in terms of kidney function depends on many factors, such as the degree of dysplasia that is present in the kidneys at birth, proteinuria, hypertension, bladder-bowel dysfunction, and recurrent UTI. Abolishing VUR by surgical means does not seem to change the outcome.

How to assess the long-term recovery outcomes of patients with cauda equina syndrome before surgery: a retrospective cohort study.

Factors influencing recovery after decompression surgery for cauda equina syndrome (CES) are not completely identified. We aimed to investigate the most valuable predictors (MVPs) of poor postoperative recovery (PPR) in patients with CES and construct a nomogram for discerning those who will experience PPR. 356 patients with CES secondary to lumbar degenerative diseases treated at *** Hospital were randomly divided into training (N=238) and validation (N=118) cohorts at a 2:1 ratio. Moreover, 92 patients from the **** Hospital composed the testing cohort. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression (LASSO) was used for selecting MVPs. The nomogram was developed by integrating coefficients of MVPs in the logistic regression, and its discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility were validated in all three cohorts. After 3 to 5 years of follow-up, the residual rates of bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and saddle anesthesia were 41.9%, 44.1%, 63.7%, and 29.0%, respectively. MVPs included stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, low stream, difficult defecation, fecal incontinence, and saddle anesthesia in order. The discriminatory ability of the nomogram was up to 0.896, 0.919, and 0.848 in the training, validation, and testing cohorts, respectively. Besides, the nomogram showed good calibration and clinical utility in all cohorts. Furthermore, the optimal cut-off value of the nomogram score for distinguishing those who will experience PPR was 148.02, above which postoperative outcomes tend to be poor. The first pre-treatment nomogram for discerning CES patients who will experience PPR was developed and validated, which will aid clinicians in clinical decision-making.

Bowel bladder dysfunction in control children in a pediatric urology office

IntroductionBowel bladder dysfunction (BBD) is common in children. Risk factors for BBD include age, gender, obesity, and behavioral issues such as ADHD. We investigated the modified Swedish Bowel-Bladder questionnaire as a sensitive indicator of BBD in healthy children. ObjectivesWe tested the usefulness of the Swedish Bowel-Bladder Questionnaire (BBQ) as an indicator of BBD in children not complaining of bowel/bladder dysfunction at the time of their visit to a pediatric urologist. Our secondary aim was to identify correlations between BBQ scores and risk factors such as gender, BMI, and ADHD. Study designAll families in our Pediatric Urology practice with patients >30 months old who were reportedly toilet trained were provided the Swedish BBQ. Total score as well as sub-scores for storage, emptying, and constipation were prospectively collected. Presenting diagnosis, gender, BMI, and ADHD history were collected. BBQ scores for patients with voiding dysfunction were compared to controls: a) those with genital problems (e.g. hydrocele/undescended testes), b) those with CAKUT (congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract). BBQ scores were analyzed as a continuous variable vs the potential risk factors (ADHD, obesity, age, and gender) using univariable/multivariable regression analysis. ResultsThe median BBQ score for the 328 control patients (95 CAKUT and 233 genital) was 2.25 with an IQR: 1 to 6. In contrast, the median BBQ was higher for those with possible voiding dysfunction; n=282; 9 with an IQR: 5 to 15). Total BBQ score exceeded 6 in 16% (52/328) of control patients. On multivariable analysis, age-adjusted total BBQ scores increased with ADHD in our controls (p=0.03) but were unaffected by gender or BMI. On multivariable analysis of the voiding dysfunction group, total BBQ scores similarly decreased with age (p<0.001) and increased with ADHD (p<0.001) and were affected by gender (p=0.024). BMI percentile had no significant effect in either cohort. Discussion and ConclusionThe Swedish BBQ was used in a U.S population and demonstrated trends towards increased voiding dysfunction associated with younger age, female gender, and ADHD. We learned that voiding dysfunction in children with ADHD is not associated with constipation and improves over time. Additionally, 16% of children with genital or urinary abnormalities and no voiding complaints have noticeable BBD uncovered by the BBQ. Hence, we conclude that the Swedish BBQ is a sensitive indicator of BBD even in children not complaining of those problems.

Utility of pudendal nerve electrodiagnostics in cases of bladder-bowel dysfunction- A retrospective study from a tertiary care center in Pakistan

Background and Objective:&#x0D; Electrodiagnostic studies play a crucial role in identifying neurogenic and non-neurogenic causes of bladder and bowel dysfunction. Such data is scarce in Pakistan. The objective of this study was to evaluate utility of pudendal nerve assessment in bladder-bowel dysfunction.&#x0D; Methods: &#x0D; A retrospective observational study was carried out at the neurophysiology lab in Aga Khan University Hospital. Patients referred for electromyography/nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS) for pudendal nerve assessment from June 2013 to June 2023 were included. Clinical data, EMG/NCS results, and demographic information were analyzed using SPSS.&#x0D; Results: &#x0D; Twenty patients (11 male and nine female) were included. Five patients experienced backache radiating to one or both lower extremities, along with urinary or fecal incontinence. Three patients had urinary incontinence, and additional three presented with both urinary and fecal incontinence. Three patients reported perianal numbness. Four patients had fecal incontinence, while one patient each reported painful defecation and backache along with perianal numbness. Three patients were diagnosed with pudendal neuropathy, out of which one had a coexisting lumbosacral radiculopathy as well. Five patients had isolated lumbosacral radiculopathy. Twelve patients exhibited normal EMG/NCS results.&#x0D; Conclusion: &#x0D; This study highlights the diagnostic utility of EMG/NCS in diagnosing pudendal nerve injuries. Despite its widespread use worldwide, the utilization of these tests in Pakistan is hindered by factors such as limited awareness, inadequate training, and resource constraints.

Antimicrobial prophylaxis for vesicoureteral reflux: which subgroups of children benefit the most?

While the Randomized Intervention for Children with Vesicoureteral Reflux (RIVUR) trial found that long-term antimicrobial prophylaxis reduced the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) recurrences by 50%, 10 children had to be treated for one to benefit (i.e., observed number needed to treat (NNT) of 10). Accordingly, we re-analyzed RIVUR data to systematically identify subgroups of children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) with a smaller NNT. Using patient-level data from the RIVUR trial, we applied penalized regression methods including the baseline age, VUR grade, type of index UTI, and bowel-bladder dysfunction (BBD) as covariates to identify subgroups. We identified four relevant subgroups of children that appear to benefit from long-term antimicrobial prophylaxis, all with observed NNTs smaller than or equal to 5: children with grade IV VUR, BBD, and febrile index UTI (1% of the sample), children with BBD and febrile index UTI (7% of the sample), children with BBD (12% of the sample), and children with grade IV VUR (8% of the sample). Use of long-term antimicrobial prophylaxis appears to be particularly relevant for children with BBD (and any grade of VUR) and those with grade IV VUR (regardless of BBD status). However, because details regarding the treatment of BBD are not available, further studies are needed to fully determine the role of prophylactic antimicrobials in the management of children with VUR who have BBD.

Pathways to paediatric urology subspecialisation: a study of casemix, incumbent attitudes and opinions

ObjectiveTo identify any self-reported differences or attitudes towards certification, publication, or practice patterns between adult urology and paediatric general surgery-trained paediatric urology providers. There are no known published differences in clinical/operative/research outcomes in either group.MethodsAn 18-item cross-sectional survey was compiled through the EAU Young Academic Urologists (YAU) office and disseminated to a trans-Atlantic convenience sample of current practising paediatric urologists. This was created using a mini-Delphi method to provide current semi-quantitative data relating to current opinions and attitudes of this cohort.ResultsA total of 228 respondents completed the survey, with female respondents representing 37% and 34% for urology and paediatric general surgery, respectively. Nearly 90% overall respondents felt that a full 2-year paediatric fellowship program was very important and 94% endorsed a collaborative dedicated paediatric urology on call service, with 92% supporting the joint development of transitional care. Urology managed higher numbers of bedwetting (p = 0.04), bladder bowel dysfunction (p = 0.02), endourological procedures (p = 0.04), and robotics (p = 0.04). Paediatric general surgery managed higher numbers of laparoscopic reconstruction (p = 0.03), and posterior urethral valve ablation (p = 0.002).ConclusionThis study represents the first time that a cross-sectional cohort of paediatric urologists from different training backgrounds were compared to assess their productivity, practice patterns and attitudes. Paediatric urology is in a unique position to have two contributing specialities, with the ability to provide optimal transitional and lifelong care. We believe that there should be a strong emphasis on collaboration and to remove any historically-created barriers under policies of equity, diversity and inclusivity.

Neuropsychiatric Developmental Disorders in Children Are Associated With an Impaired Response to Treatment in Bladder Bowel Dysfunction: A Prospective Multi-Institutional European Observational Study.

Bladder and bowel dysfunction is a common but underdiagnosed pediatric entity which may represent up to 47% of pediatric urology consults. The objectives of this observational study were to determine functional 1-year outcomes following standard treatment of bladder and bowel dysfunction in both control and neuropsychiatric developmental disorder groups using validated questionnaires, and to perform an initial cost analysis. This was a prospective observational study conducted across a number of academic European centers (July 2020-November 2022) for new bladder and bowel dysfunction patients. Parents completed a sociodemographic survey, information pertaining to prior neuropsychiatric developmental disorder diagnoses, as well as a number of validated functional scores. A total of 240 patients were recruited. In the control bladder and bowel dysfunction group, the baseline Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System and Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire scores were 20% and 17.% lower, respectively, after 1 year compared to the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder group. The change in improvement was diminished for the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder cohort in both Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System and Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire scores. The odds ratio of full symptom resolution was 5.7 in the control cohort compared to the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder cohort. A cost analysis on prescribed medications at referral led to a total cost of €32,603.76 (US $35,381.00) in the control group and €37,625.36 (US $40,830.00) in the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder group. This study demonstrates that pediatric patients with a neuropsychiatric developmental disorder exhibit more severe bladder and bowel dysfunction at baseline and throughout treatment with a lower overall quality of life, as well as 15.4% higher medication costs at referral. It is also important that parents' and caregivers' expectations are managed regarding higher levels of treatment resistance for functional bladder and bowel issues.

Does KUB play a role in the diagnosis of bladder bowel dysfunction?

Kidney ureter bladder radiography (KUB) is widely used for the evaluation of constipation in children with bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD); however, there is varying evidence to support its routine diagnostic use. One drawback to KUB is radiation exposure. The dangers of radiation in children are well-documented, and per As Low As Reasonably Achievable, non-beneficial radiation should be avoided. This risk is especially high in children who undergo repeated imaging in the follow up of constipation treatment. We sought to assess the utility of KUB in diagnosing children with BBD by comparing it to four diagnostic tests and/or validated instruments: the Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Score (DVSS), Rome IV criteria, rectal diameter on ultrasound (RD), and the Bristol Stool Form Score (BSFS). We prospectively enrolled a cohort of patients presenting to an academic pediatric urology practice with symptoms of BBD. Severity of stool burden on KUB (mild, moderate, or severe), RD on ultrasound (≥3.4cm), DVSS, Rome IV, and BSFS were obtained for each patient. All imaging was interpreted by a pediatric radiologist and pediatric urologist. Primary outcomes were the association between the four diagnostic tests and KUB stool burden. Bivariate analysis of all individual variables versus KUB was performed, as well as multivariate regressions to determine if multiple measures were predictive of KUB stool burden when combined. Between October 2020 and May 2022, 50 patients were enrolled. All children were under the age of 18, with a median age of 8 years (IQR 3-13). 38% were male. Median BMI-for-age-percentile was 80.8 (IQR 50.3-98.3). When comparing individual variables to KUB in bivariate analyses, it was found that RD on ultrasound is predictive of significant stool burden on KUB (p=0.03). No other individual variables were predictive. In the multivariate analyses, no combination of tests was found to be predictive of KUB. We compared the effectiveness of four commonly used diagnostic tests in children with BBD to validate the use of KUB. In conclusion, our results support the use of RD on ultrasound as a non-radiating alternative to KUB to assess stool burden. Data also suggest that KUB for fecal load does not correlate with urinary (DVSS) or bowel (Rome IV, BSFS) symptoms in BBD, and that symptoms scores should still be used independently for diagnosis and monitoring of treatment response. In conclusion, KUB has a limited role in the diagnosis of BBD.

Prevalence of urologic sequelae and bladder and bowel dysfunctions in patients with congenital Zika syndrome: A multicenter evaluation of the Zika virus bladder and bowel sequelae assistance network

Neurogenic bladder was first confirmed as a urological sequela of Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS) in 2018. Further clinical-epidemiological evidence also confirmed neurogenic bowel dysfunction and cryptorchidism. To strengthen the care for these children, the Congenital Zika Virus Bladder and Bowel Sequelae Network (RASZ in Brazilian) was created, including six integrated centers in Brazil. This article represents the initial outcome of the efforts by RASZ. To evaluate the prevalence of bladder and bowel dysfunction, cryptorchidism and other urological sequelae related to CZS in cohorts attended in six Brazilian states. Observational, prospective, multicenter study including children with CZS assisted in one of six RASZ collaborative centers between June 2016 and February 2023. Data were collected from patient's first assessment using the same protocols for urological and bowel evaluation. Categorical variables were analyzed by frequency of occurrence and numerical variables by mean, median, and standard deviation. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committees of each center, all parents/caregivers provided written informed consent. The study included 414 children aged 2 months to 7 years (mean 2.77 years, SD 1.73), 227 (54.8%) were male and 140 (33,8%) referred urological and bowel symptoms on arrival. Prevalence of both urological and bowel sequelae was 66.7%, 51% of children aged 4 years and older had urinary incontinence (UI). UTI was confirmed in 23.4% (two presented toxemia) and among males, 18.1% had cryptorchidism. Renal ultrasonography, performed in 186 children, was abnormal in 25 (13.4%), 7 had hydronephrosis. Among the 287 children who performed urodynamics, 283 (98.6%) were altered: 232 had a lower bladder capacity, 144 a maximum bladder pressure of ≥40cm H2O, and 127 did not satisfactorily empty their bladder. A higher prevalence of NLUTD, neurogenic bowel and cryptorchidism was confirmed in children with CZS. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including a multidisciplinary approach, may reduce the risk of UTIs, UI and kidney damage. A limitationof the study was the inability of children to completethe protocol, specifically urodynamic evaluation, andultrasonography. In both exams, the percentage of abnormal cases was higher than that expected in the normal population. A 66,7% prevalence of combined urological sequelae and bladder-bowel dysfunction related to CZS was confirmed in patients evaluated in six Brazilian cohorts. The most frequent changes were related to NLUTD, neurogenic bowel, and cryptorchidism. Prevalence may be underestimated due to access restrictions to diagnostic tests.

Evidence-based clinical practice guideline for management of urinary tract infection and primary vesicoureteric reflux.

We present updated, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines from the Indian Society of Pediatric Nephrology (ISPN) for the management of urinary tract infection (UTI) and primary vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) in children. These guidelines conform to international standards; Institute of Medicine and AGREE checklists were used to ensure transparency, rigor, and thoroughness in the guideline development. In view of the robust methodology, these guidelines are applicable globally for the management of UTI and VUR. Seventeen recommendations and 18 clinical practice points have been formulated. Some of the key recommendations and practice points are as follows. Urine culture with > 104 colony forming units/mL is considered significant for the diagnosis of UTI in an infant if the clinical suspicion is strong. Urine leukocyte esterase and nitrite can be used as an alternative screening test to urine microscopy in a child with suspected UTI. Acute pyelonephritis can be treated with oral antibiotics in a non-toxic infant for 7-10days. An acute-phase DMSA scan is not recommended in the evaluation of UTI. Micturating cystourethrography (MCU) is indicated in children with recurrent UTI, abnormal kidney ultrasound, and in patients below 2years of age with non-E. coli UTI. Dimercaptosuccinic acid scan (DMSA scan) is indicated only in children with recurrent UTI and high-grade (3-5) VUR. Antibiotic prophylaxis is not indicated in children with a normal urinary tract after UTI. Prophylaxis is recommended to prevent UTI in children with bladder bowel dysfunction (BBD) and those with high-grade VUR. In children with VUR, prophylaxis should be stopped if the child is toilet trained, free of BBD, and has not had a UTI in the last 1year. Surgical intervention in high-grade VUR can be considered for parental preference over antibiotic prophylaxis or in children developing recurrent breakthrough febrile UTIs on antibiotic prophylaxis.

Bladder bowel dysfunction scoring system (BBDSS): A novel, illustrated questionnaire for evaluation of voiding dysfunction in children.

We sought to evaluate the reliability and validity of a new, illustrated questionnaire, the bladder bowel dysfunction symptom score (BBDSS) in the assessment of overactive bladder (OAB) and bladder bowel dysfunction (BBD). The BBDSS questionnaire consisted of 12 structured questions. This pilot study was designed with two principal groups of questions: one group to assess bladder symptoms and the other to assess bowel dysfunction during the preceding month. Each question had three possible answers, with each answer being assigned a severity score. We prospectively collected previously untreated patients referred to our voiding dysfunction clinic for the first time. A control group of healthy children was recruited to assess the reliability of the BBDSS questionnaire. The provisional diagnosis was collected from patients' charts at the time of presentation. The questionnaire was administered to 92 children (44 in the affected group and 48 in the control group). The age at presentation was similar in both groups (17 months or nine years, nine months). The mean total score for the affected group was 8.7 (3-14) while it was 1.19 (0-5) for the control group (p<0.001). There was a strong correlation, between the total BBDSS score and both groups (r=0.88, p<0.001). Using the ROC curve, the BBDSS was found to be an excellent tool in differentiating normal from affected patients (area under the curve [AUC]=0.98, p<0.001). When the total BBDSS score was ≥6, the positive predictive value was 1, with a negative predictive value of 0.89. The defecation part of the BBDSS was a good tool in differentiating OAB from BBD patients (AUC=0.89, p<0.001). No patient with OAB had a bowel score >3. The BBDSS is a reliable and valid instrument in the diagnosis of voiding dysfunction. The questionnaire was easily administered by parents or children. Moreover, it can differentiate between OAB and BBD.

Bladder and bowel dysfunction in Down syndrome with neural tube defect: case report and review of the literature

BackgroundDown syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by trisomy of chromosome 21 and characterized by an increased risk of multiorgan involvement. In Down syndrome children, functional constipation and lower urinary tract infections have been described, together with higher risk for incontinence and delayed sphincter control. At present, to our knowledge, no clear association between Down syndrome, Bladder Bowel Dysfunction and neural tube defects has been previously described.Case presentationWe describe two female patients with Down syndrome presenting Bladder Bowel Dysfunction in association with neural tube defects, who both underwent personalized multidisciplinary intervention and pelvic floor rehabilitation, with good clinical outcomes.ConclusionAt present, no screening program has been established in order to rule out neural tube defects or neurogenic urinary anomalies in Down syndrome patients presenting bowel and/or bladder dysfunction. In our opinion, presence of spinal abnormalities, despite rare, may be contribute to urinary symptoms and should be ruled out in patients presenting progressive or persistent Bladder Bowel Dysfunction. Early diagnosis and management of spinal cord defects associated with neurogenic urinary dysfunction may allow to prevent possible complications.

Disparities in anterior cervical discectomy and fusion provision and outcomes for cervical stenosis

Disparities in neurosurgical care have emerged as an area of interest when considering the impact of social determinants on access to health care. Decompression via anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for cervical stenosis (CS) may prevent progression towards debilitating complications that may severely compromise one's quality of life. This retrospective database analysis aims to elucidate demographic and socioeconomic trends in ACDF provision and outcomes of CS-related pathologies. The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project National Inpatient Sample database was queried between 2016 and 2019 using International Classification of Diseases 10th edition codes for patients undergoing ACDF as a treatment for spinal cord and nerve root compression. Baseline demographics and inpatient stay measures were analyzed. Patients of White race were significantly less likely to present with manifestations of CS such as myelopathy, plegia, and bowel-bladder dysfunction. Meanwhile, Black patients and Hispanic patients were significantly more likely to experience these impairments representative of the more severe stages of the degenerative spine disease process. White race conferred a lesser risk of complications such as tracheostomy, pneumonia, and acute kidney injury in comparison to non-white race. Insurance by Medicaid and Medicare conferred significant risks in terms of more advanced disease prior to intervention and negative inpatient. Patients in the highest quartile of median income consistently fared better than patients in the lowest quartile across almost every aspect ranging from degree of progression at initial presentation to incidence of complications to healthcare resource utilization. All outcomes for patients age > 65 were worse than patients who were younger at the time of the intervention. Significant disparities exist in the trajectory of CS and the risks associated with ACDF amongst various demographic cohorts. The differences between patient populations may be reflective of a larger additive burden for certain populations, especially when considering patients' intersectionality.

MP18-19 SHOULD KUB BE USED IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF BLADDER BOWEL DYSFUNCTION?

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP18-19 SHOULD KUB BE USED IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF BLADDER BOWEL DYSFUNCTION? Alexandra Siegal, Neha Malhotra, Erin Miller, Joy Masseaux, Eva Baldisserotto, Antonio Quiros, and Fernando Ferrer Alexandra SiegalAlexandra Siegal More articles by this author , Neha MalhotraNeha Malhotra More articles by this author , Erin MillerErin Miller More articles by this author , Joy MasseauxJoy Masseaux More articles by this author , Eva BaldisserottoEva Baldisserotto More articles by this author , Antonio QuirosAntonio Quiros More articles by this author , and Fernando FerrerFernando Ferrer More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003238.19AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Plain kidney ureter bladder radiography (KUB) is widely used for the evaluation of constipation in children with bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD); however, there is varying evidence to support its routine diagnostic use. One drawback to KUB is radiation exposure. The dangers of radiation in children are well-documented and As Low As Reasonably Achievable states to avoid non-beneficial radiation. This risk is especially high in children who undergo repeated imaging in the follow up of constipation treatment. We sought to assess the effectiveness of KUB to diagnose children with BBD by comparing it to four diagnostic tests: the Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Score (DVSS), Rome IV criteria, rectal diameter on ultrasound (RD), and the Bristol Stool Score. METHODS: We prospectively enrolled a cohort of patients presenting to an academic pediatric urology practice with symptoms of BBD. Severity of stool burden on KUB (mild, moderate, or severe), RD on ultrasound (≥3.4 cm), DVSS, Rome IV, and Bristol Stool Score were obtained for each patient. All imaging was interpreted by a pediatric radiologist and urologist. Primary outcomes were the association between the four diagnostic tests and KUB stool burden. Secondary measure were age, sex, BMI, treatment, and outcomes. Pearson’s rho bivariate analysis of all individual variables versus KUB was performed, as well as multivariate regressions to determine if multiple measures were predictive of KUB stool burden when combined. RESULTS: Between October 2020 and May 2022, 50 patients were enrolled. All children were under the age of 18, with a mean age of 7.5+/-2.2 years, and 38% were male. Average BMI was 19.16+/-5.34. When comparing individual variables to KUB in bivariate analyses, it was found that RD on ultrasound is predictive of significant stool burden on KUB (p=0.03). No other individual variables were predictive. In the multivariate analyses, no combination of tests was found to be predictive of KUB. Increased RD on ultrasound was not predictive of treatment response. CONCLUSIONS: We compared the effectiveness of four commonly used diagnostic tests in children with BBD to validate the use of KUB. We found insufficient evidence to support a diagnostic association between clinical symptoms (DVSS and Rome IV) and fecal load on KUB. Our results support the use of RD on ultrasound as a non-radiating alternative to KUB to determine stool burden. RD has been proposed to provide an objective measure for diagnosis and monitoring of treatment response; however, unlike prior studies, we did not find initial increased RD to be predictive of treatment response. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e231 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Alexandra Siegal More articles by this author Neha Malhotra More articles by this author Erin Miller More articles by this author Joy Masseaux More articles by this author Eva Baldisserotto More articles by this author Antonio Quiros More articles by this author Fernando Ferrer More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...