Sphincter Dyssynergia Research Articles

Effect of biofeedback pelvic floor training on urodynamic study in children with detrusor sphincter dyssynergia

ABSTRACT Introduction Detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) is the urodynamic description of bladder outlet obstruction from detrusor muscle contraction with concomitant involuntary urethral sphincter activation. DSD is associated with neurologic conditions such as spina bifida. It is associated with urinary incontinence (UI), nocturnal enuresis, urgency, intermittency, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). The Aim of this Study It aims to assess the efficacy of biofeedback (BF) for achieving perineal synergy and improving symptoms in thirty children with refractory DSD who failed to improve with medical treatment in the last 2 to 3 years. Material and Methods Thirty children (20 girls and 10 boys) aged 6–18 years (mean: 9.2 ± 2.2 yrs) with refractory DSD who failed to show improvement after 2–3 years of medical treatment with recurrent UTI and failure to emptying completely their bladder using urodynamic study. After patients understood the concept of BF pelvic floor training were regularly scheduled twice weekly for up to 3 months. Improvement was assessed using interview with parents after 3 months with measurement of manomeric pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) during straining and urodynamic study. Results Seven (23.3%) of the 30 children had daytime UI and 11 (36.7%) had nighttime incontinence. 4/30 (13.3%) children had increased urgency and 5 (16.7%) had straining intermittency and 3% (10%) had Dysuria. After 3 months of BF pelvic floor training 7/30 (23.3%) of children were fully responsive 100% decrease of symptoms, 14/30 (46%) responded more than 90% decrease of their symptoms, 7/30 (23.3%) of children responded partial decrease of symptoms and 2/30 (0 to 49%) decrease of symptoms to BF pelvic floor training. Conclusions BF pelvic floor training is an effective therapeutic option for children with refectory DSD. It improves symptoms of children with DSD with decreased UTIs through decreasing pressure of PFMs during urination.

Botulinum toxin therapy in urology: historical aspect

The review article shows the main stages of studying botulinum toxin and its use in medicine. The possibilities of using botulinum toxin for the treatment of urological patients are similarly described. Furthermore, the most significant studies on the use of botulinum toxin in patients with neurogenic detrusor c, idiopathic overactive bladder, detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, chronic pelvic pain, benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation are presented.

Serotonin (5-HT)2A/2C receptor agonist 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl-2-aminopropane hydrochloride improves detrusor sphincter dyssynergia by inhibiting L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in spinal cord injured rats.

To explore the role of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) in 5-HT2A/2C receptor agonist 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl-2-aminopropane hydrochloride's improvement of spinal cord injury (SCI) induced detrusor sphincter dyssynergia and the expressions of the 5-hydroxy tryptamine (5-HT) 2A receptors and VGCCs in lumbosacral cord after SCI. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into normal control group and SCI group (N = 15 each). Cystometrogram (CMG), simultaneous CMG, and external urethral sphincter electromyography (EUS-EMG) were conducted in all groups under urethane anesthesia. Drugs were administered intrathecally during CMG and EUS-EMG. Rats were euthanized and L6-S1 spinal cord were acquired for immunofluorescence. In SCI rats, intrathecal administration of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl-2-aminopropane hydrochloride or L-type VGCC blocker, nifedipine, could significantly increase voiding volume, voiding efficiency, and the number of high-frequency oscillations. They could also prolong EUS bursting activity duration on EUS-EMG. Moreover, the effect of 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl-2-aminopropane hydrochloride can be eliminated with the combined administration of L-type VGCC agonist, (±)-Bay K 8644. No significant differences were observed in CMG after intrathecal administration of T-type VGCC blocker TTA-P2. Additionally, immunofluorescence of the lumbosacral cord in control and SCI rats showed that the 5-HT2A receptor and Cav1.2 immunolabeling-positive neurons in the anterior horn of the lumbosacral cord were increased in SCI rats. Our study demonstrated that 5-HT2A/2C agonist 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl-2-aminopropane hydrochloride may improve SCI-induced DSD by inhibiting the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel in lumbosacral cord motoneurons.

Effects of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave on bladder and urethral dysfunction in spinal cord injured rats.

To investigate the effects of low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LiESWT) on bladder and urethral dysfunction with detrusor overactivity and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) resulting from spinal cord injury (SCI). At 3 weeks after Th9 spinal cord transection, LiESWT was performed on the bladder and urethra of adult female Sprague Dawley rats with 300 shots of 2Hz and an energy flux density of 0.12mJ/mm2, repeated four times every 3 days, totaling 1200 shots. Six weeks postoperatively, a single cystometrogram (CMG) and an external urethral sphincter electromyogram (EUS-EMG) were simultaneously recorded in awake animals, followed by histological evaluation. Voiding efficiency significantly improved in the LiESWT group (71.2%) compared to that in the control group (51.8%). The reduced EUS activity ratio during voiding (duration of reduced EUS activity during voiding/EUS contraction duration with voiding + duration of reduced EUS activity during voiding) was significantly higher in the LiESWT group (66.9%) compared to the control group (46.3%). Immunohistochemical examination revealed that fibrosis in the urethral muscle layer was reduced, and S-100 stained-positive area, a Schwann cell marker, was significantly increased in the urethra of the LiESWT group. LiESWT targeting the urethra after SCI can restore the EUS-EMG tonic activity during voiding, thereby partially ameliorating DSD. Therefore, LiESWT is a promising approach for treating bladder and urethral dysfunction following SCI.

Risk factors of video urodynamics and bladder management for long-term complications in patients with chronic spinal cord injury

This study explores 15-year urological complications in chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) patients and investigates the predictive factors from video-urodynamic study (VUDS) and bladder management. Analyzing 864 SCI patients with a mean 15.6-year follow-up, we assessed complications and utilized multivariate logistic regression for risk evaluation. VUDS factors such as autonomic dysreflexia, detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, vesicourethral reflux (VUR), contracted bladder, and high voiding detrusor pressure significantly increased the likelihood of recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTI). Low bladder compliance, VUR, and contracted bladder notably raised the risk of hydronephrosis, while contracted bladder and detrusor overactivity with detrusor underactivity heightened chronic kidney disease risk. Volitional voiding reduced rUTI and VUR risk, whereas Valsalva maneuver-assisted voiding increased hydronephrosis risk. In conclusion, a contracted bladder identified in VUDS is associated with long-term urological complications in SCI, we propose that patients already experiencing a contracted bladder should prioritize volitional voiding as their preferred bladder management strategy to minimize the risk of additional complications such as rUTI and VUR. These findings unveil previously unexplored aspects in research, emphasizing the need for proactive management strategies in this patient population.

Facteurs pronostiques cliniques et urodynamiques de complications urinaires chez le blessé médullaire

AimLiterature review on the prognostic clinical and urodynamic factors of urinary complications in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. MethodArticles dealing with SCI urinary complications and their prognostic clinical and urodynamic factors have been searched in the Pubmed database until march 2024, articles in english or in french were included and analysed. ResultsThirty-eight articles published between 1965 and 2024 were included in this review, the incidence of urinary complications has decreased considerably since the 60s. Clinical prognostic factors are a cervical or complete SCI, age, voiding mode, the indwelling catheter most at risk. Urodynamics factors are compliance disorder (<20), high detrusor pressure (>40 cm of water), detrusor sphincter dyssynergia and a postvoid residual volume. ConclusionUrinary complications in SCI patients are frequents, it is necessary to know the prognostic factors in order to have an early detection and management to limit them.

Real-Life Treatment Outcome of Botulinum Toxin A Injection on Overactive Bladder and Voiding Dysfunction in Patients with Central Nervous System Lesions.

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) is common in patients with neurological lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). Medical treatment usually cannot adequately relieve NLUTD. This study reported the real-life treatment outcome of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) for overactive bladders (OAB) and voiding dysfunction in patients with CNS lesions. We retrospectively analyzed the first-time treatment outcome of 74 patients who received detrusor 100 U BoNT-A for OAB and 45 patients who received a urethral sphincter 100 U BoNT-A injection for voiding dysfunction. The treatment outcome, therapeutic duration, and adverse events (AE) after BoNT-A were compared among different CNS lesions and among patients with different urodynamic characteristics. The study included 74 patients receiving detrusor injections for OAB (36 with cerebrovascular accidents, 13 with Parkinson's disease, and 25 with dementia) and 45 patients receiving a urethral sphincter injection for voiding dysfunction (26 with cerebrovascular accidents, 7 with Parkinson's disease, and 12 with dementia). After detrusor BoNT-A treatment, urinary continence was achieved in 28.4% of patients with neurogenic OAB, postoperative difficult urination in 59.5%, acute urinary retention (AUR) in 9.5%, and urinary tract infection (UTI) in 14.9%, with a therapeutic duration of 6.43 months. There were no differences among subgroups or between patients with detrusor overactivity (DO) and DO with detrusor underactivity (DU) in terms of treatment outcomes and AEs. The improvement rate of urethral sphincter BoNT-A injections was 75.6% without any difference among subgroups. After treatment, 24.4% of the patients had exacerbated urinary incontinence, 33.3% had persistent difficult urination, and 15.6% had UTI. Patients with dementia had higher rates of difficult urination and UTI, higher postvoid residual volume, and a shorter therapeutic duration. Patients with DU and those without urethral sphincter dyssynergia had less favorable outcomes after their urethral sphincter BoNT-A injection. The therapeutic efficacy of detrusor BoNT-A injection for OAB due to CNS lesions is limited, with high rates of difficult urination, AUR, and UTI. Although urethral sphincter BoNT-A injection is effective in treating voiding dysfunction; however, exacerbated urinary incontinence and persistent difficult urination remain a problem, particularly in patients with dementia.

Chronic chemogenetic inhibition of TRPV1 bladder afferent promotes micturition recovery post SCI

Spinal cord injury often results in chronic loss of micturition control, which is featured by bladder hyperreflexia and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia. Previous studies showed that treatment of capsaicin reduces non-voiding bladder contractions in multiple animal injury models and human patients. However, its underlying neural mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, by injecting a RetroAAV into the bladder wall, we specifically targeted TRPV1+, a capsaicin receptor, bladder afferent neurons. Morphometric analysis revealed borderline increase of the soma size and significant spinal axon sprouting of TRPV1+ bladder afferent neurons post a complete T8 spinal cord crush. We further demonstrated that chronic chemogenetic inhibition of these DRG neurons improved micturition recovery after SCI by increasing voiding efficiency and alleviating bladder hyperreflexia, along with reduced morphological changes caused by injury. Our study provided novel insights into the structural and functional changes of TRPV1+ bladder afferent post SCI and further supports the clinical use of capsaicin as an effective treatment to improve bladder functions in patients with SCI.

Bladder outlet obstruction in women: Scope of the problem and differential diagnosis

AbstractIntroductionThe prevalence, formal definition, and diagnostic criteria of bladder outlet obstruction in owmen have not been clearly defined.MethodsThis is a literature review of the definition of BOO in women, its prevalence, as well as its differential diagnosis.ResultsThe main causes of BOO in women are divided into functional and anatomic conditions. Functional etiologies include detrusor external sphincter dyssynergia, dysfunctional voiding, Fowler's syndrome, and primary bladder neck obstruction. Anatomic causes can be further divided into extrinsinc and intrinsic conditions. Intrinsic etiologies include urethral stricture and urethral diverticula, whereas extrinsic causes comprise pelvic organ prolapse, post anti‐incontinence surgery, and Skene's gland cyst or abscess.ConclusionsThere are multiple etiologies to BOO in women, and this condition is most probably underdiagnosed, owing to a lack of consensus for a standard definition.

Developing new ways to assess neural control of pelvic organ function in spinal conditions: ICI-RS 2023.

Several central nervous system (CNS) centers affect muscle groups of the lower urinary tract (LUT) and anorectal tract (ART) via autonomic and somatic pathways, working in different modes (storage or expulsion). Hence spinal cord dysfunction can affect the LUT and ART by several possible mechanisms. This review reports the discussions of a workshop at the 2023 meeting of the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society, which reviewed uncertainties and research priorities of spinal dysfunction. Discussion focussed on the levator ani nerve, mechanisms underpinning sensory function and sensation, functional imaging, dyssynergia, and experimental models. The following key research questions were identified. (1) Clinically, how can we evaluate the levator ani muscle to support assessment and identify prognosis for effective treatment selection? (2) How can we reliably measure levator ani tone? (3) How can we evaluate sensory information and sensation for the LUT and the ART? (4) What is the role of functional CNS imaging in development of scientific insights and clinical evaluation? (5) What is the relationship of detrusor sphincter dyssynergia to renal failure? Spinal cord dysfunction can fundamentally disrupt LUT and ART function, with considerable clinical impact. The evaluation needs to reflect the full scope of potential problems, and new clinical and diagnostic approaches are needed, for prognosis and treatment. The preclinical science evaluating spinal cord function in both LUT and ART storage and elimination remains a major priority, even though it is a challenging experimental context. Without this underpinning evidence, development of new clinical evidence may be held back.

The Efficacy and Safety of Intrasphincteric Botulinum Toxin-A Injections in Patients with Non-Spinal Cord Injury-Related Detrusor Sphincter Dyssynergia: A Retrospective Study.

Botulinum toxin-A (BoNT-A) injections into the external urethral sphincter are an established therapeutic procedure for reducing bladder outlet obstruction in patients with detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) due to spinal cord injury (SCI). Given the paucity of data on patients with DSD but without SCI, we aimed to assess the efficacy of intrasphincteric BoNT-A injections in this cohort. For this retrospective study, we screened all patients who underwent their first intrasphincteric BoNT-A injection at our institution between 2015 and 2021. The inclusion criteria were patients aged 18 years or older with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) and DSD with a maximum detrusor pressure (Pdetmax) of >40 cmH2O, confirmed via video-urodynamic studies (VUDS). The primary outcome was a reduction in Pdetmax and detrusor overactivity leak point pressure (DOLPP) during NDO-associated urinary incontinence posttreatment. The secondary outcome was a reduction in patients relying on indwelling urinary catheters posttreatment. We included 13 eligible patients (all male, median age 31 years, with different underlying neurological disorders, except SCI). All underwent intrasphincteric BoNT-A injections with either 100 (n = 7) or 150 (n = 6) units, respectively. Pdetmax during voiding was significantly reduced posttreatment (median 105 vs. 54 cmH2O, p = 0.006), whereas DOLPP remained unchanged (i.e., median 50 cmH2O). While seven patients relied on indwelling urinary catheters pre-treatment, all were catheter-free posttreatment. Intrasphincteric BoNT-A injections in patients with non-SCI related DSD appear feasible for reducing bladder outlet obstruction to a certain degree in this cohort and subsequently for reducing the rate of indwelling catheters.

Prevalence of Unfavorable Video-Urodynamic Findings and Clinical Implications in Patients with Minimally Conscious State/Unresponsive Wakefulness Syndrome: A Retrospective Descriptive Analysis.

The aim of this retrospective exploratory study was to investigate the prevalence of unfavorable findings during video-urodynamic studies (VUDS) in patients with minimally conscious state (MCS)/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and whether management of the lower urinary tract (LUT) was adjusted accordingly. A retrospective chart review was conducted to screen for patients diagnosed with MCS/UWS at our rehabilitation center between 2011 and 2020. Patients 18 years or older were included and underwent baseline VUDS after being diagnosed with MCS/UWS. We analyzed urodynamic parameters and subsequent changes in LUT management in this cohort. In total, 32 patients (7 females, 25 males, median age 37 years) with MCS/UWS were included for analysis. While at least one unfavorable VUDS finding (i.e., neurogenic detrusor overactivity [NDO], detrusor sphincter dyssynergia {DSD, high maximum detrusor pressure during storage phase [>40 cmH2O], low-compliance bladder [<20 mL/cmH2O], and vesico-uretero-renal reflux [VUR]) was found in each patient, NDO (78.1%, 25/32) and DSD (68.8%, 22/32) were the two most frequent unfavorable VUDS findings. Following baseline VUDS, new LUT treatment options were established in 56.3% (18/32) of all patients. In addition, bladder-emptying methods were changed in 46.9% (15/32) of all patients, resulting in fewer patients relying on indwelling catheters. Our retrospective exploratory study revealed a high prevalence of NDO and DSD in patients with MCS/UWS, illustrating the importance of VUDS to adapt LUT management in this cohort accordingly.

Urologic manifestations of hypotonia, ataxia, and delayed development syndrome (HADDS), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder

Early B-cell factor 3 (EBF3) is a transcription factor involved in neuronal differentiation and maturation. Pathogenic variants are associated with hypotonia, ataxia, and delayed development syndrome (HADDS) (MIM#617330). Urologic manifestations are common and may have implications regarding long term renal function. To review all known patients with pathogenic variants of the EBF3 gene resulting in HADDS with urologic manifestations. We hypothesize a high rate of bladder dysfunction secondary to the EBF3 variant's impact on relaxation of the urinary sphincter leading to detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD). The PubMed database was queried for publications of the EBF3 mutation between January 2017 and January 2023. Search terms were "EBF3 mutation OR HADDS AND urology OR phenotype". Retrospective analysis of HADDS patients cared for in our institution was performed. Demographic and clinical information was collected. We identified 52 patients (33F:19M) through literature (28F:18M) and retrospective review (5F:1M). There was a high prevalence of genitourinary physical exam abnormalities, history of urinary tract infection, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), and diagnosis of neurogenic bladder. Within the literature review cohort, 67% had a urologic diagnosis. Females were disproportionately affected with urologic manifestations. In our cohort, four of six children were diagnosed with VUR and severe voiding dysfunction consistent with neurogenic bladder (67%). These children were managed with a vesicostomy. Five children had bowel dysfunction requiring therapy. Urodynamics suggested a high prevalence of external sphincter dyssynergia. Less severe forms of DSD were felt to be implicated in the abnormal voiding parameters in children who presented later in life based on non-invasive flow studies. There is significant variability in the phenotypic presentation of patients with HADDS. While EBF3 plays a clear role in neurodevelopment, it also impacts muscle development and may impact muscle relaxation. The location of the genetic variant may impact the degree of DSD, with more severe forms leading to earlier presentations. Initial work-up should include a renal ultrasound (RUS) and post void residual (PVR). Consideration can be given to obtaining a VCUG, DMSA scan or urodynamic studies. Yearly screening should be pursued with an RUS and PVR in those with an initial unremarkable work-up given the variable timing and severity of presentation. Urologic manifestations of HADDS include high rates of bladder dysfunction secondary to DSD, vesicoureteral reflux, urinary tract infection, and cryptorchidism. These patients are at risk of renal deterioration if urinary abnormalities are not properly diagnosed and managed.

Neurology meets Urology : Overview of urologically relevant neurological diseases

In addition to the classical neurourological diseases multiple sclerosis and paraplegia/spina bifida, there are many and also widely spread diseases of the neurological spectrum that can result in significant dysfunctions of the urinary tract. Depending on the location (cerebral/suprapontine, spinal/suprasacral, spinal infrasacral and peripheral), different disorders can result (detrusor overactivity and underactivity, sphincter dyssynergia and low compliance). Changes can also occur over the course of an illness and thus make the analysis of the respective disorder even more difficult. Not all patients present directly to aneurourological center and in some cases the connection is not directly apparent. Firstly, this article focuses on the urological relevance of the respective neurological disease. Secondly, the basic neurourological information should support the initial assessment of the disorder.

Urodynamics Are Essential to Predict the Risk for Upper Urinary Tract Damage after Acute Spinal Cord Injury.

We used clinical parameters to develop a prediction model for the occurrence of urodynamic risk factors for upper urinary tract (UUT) damage during the first year after acute spinal cord injury (SCI). A total of 97 patients underwent urodynamic investigation at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after acute SCI, within the framework of a population-based longitudinal study at a single university SCI center. Candidate predictors included demographic characteristics and neurological and functional statuses 1 month after SCI. Outcomes included urodynamic risk factors for UUT damage: detrusor overactivity combined with detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, maximum storage detrusor pressure (pDetmax) ≥ 40 cmH2O, bladder compliance < 20 mL/cmH2O, and vesicoureteral reflux. Multivariable logistic regression was used for the prediction model development and internal validation, using the area under the receiver operating curve (aROC) to assess model discrimination. Two models showed fair discrimination for pDetmax ≥ 40 cmH2O: (i) upper extremity motor score and sex, aROC 0.79 (95% CI: 0.69-0.89), C-statistic 0.78 (95% CI: 0.69-0.87), and (ii) neurological level, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade, and sex, aROC 0.78 (95% CI: 0.68-0.89), C-statistic 0.76 (95% CI: 0.68-0.85). We identified two models that provided fair predictive values for urodynamic risk factors of UUT damage during the first year after SCI. Pending external validation, these models may be useful for clinical trial planning, although less so for individual-level patient management. Therefore, urodynamics remains essential for reliably identifying patients at risk of UUT damage.

Assessing Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction after Spinal Cord Injury: Animal Models in Preclinical Neuro-Urology Research.

Neurogenic bladder dysfunction is a condition that affects both bladder storage and voiding function and remains one of the leading causes of morbidity after spinal cord injury (SCI). The vast majority of individuals with severe SCI develop neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD), with symptoms ranging from neurogenic detrusor overactivity, detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, or sphincter underactivity depending on the location and extent of the spinal lesion. Animal models are critical to our fundamental understanding of lower urinary tract function and its dysfunction after SCI, in addition to providing a platform for the assessment of potential therapies. Given the need to develop and evaluate novel assessment tools, as well as therapeutic approaches in animal models of SCI prior to human translation, urodynamics assessment techniques have been implemented to measure NLUTD function in a variety of animals, including rats, mice, cats, dogs and pigs. In this narrative review, we summarize the literature on the use of animal models for cystometry testing in the assessment of SCI-related NLUTD. We also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various animal models, and opportunities for future research.

Protocolo de tratamiento de la disfunción del tracto urinario inferior en la esclerosis múltiple y trastornos relacionados

Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) affects between a third and the majority of patients with multiple sclerosis, its prevalence increasing with the duration of the disease and causing a great impact on quality of life. LUTD is classified into filling symptoms, voiding symptoms, or mixed symptoms. The scenario of simultaneous contraction of the detrusor and bladder sphincter is called bladder detrusor sphincter dyssynergia and requires periodic ultrasound and renal function monitoring, due to the risk of kidney impairment caused by a retrograde increase in pressure. Filling symptoms are treated with hygienic-dietary measures, antimuscarinics, mirabegron, desmopressin, botulinum toxin or neuromodulation. Symptoms of voiding (postvoid residue greater than 100mL) are treated with intermittent self-catheterization or, less commonly, indwelling bladder or suprapubic catheterization.

Molecular Mechanisms of Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction after Spinal Cord Injury.

This article provides a synopsis of current progress made in fundamental studies of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) after spinal cord injury (SCI) above the sacral level. Animal models of SCI allowed us to examine the effects of SCI on the micturition control and the underlying neurophysiological processes of SCI-induced LUTD. Urine storage and elimination are the two primary functions of the LUT, which are governed by complicated regulatory mechanisms in the central and peripheral nervous systems. These neural systems control the action of two functional units in the LUT: the urinary bladder and an outlet consisting of the bladder neck, urethral sphincters, and pelvic-floor striated muscles. During the storage phase, the outlet is closed, and the bladder is inactive to maintain a low intravenous pressure and continence. In contrast, during the voiding phase, the outlet relaxes, and the bladder contracts to facilitate adequate urine flow and bladder emptying. SCI disrupts the normal reflex circuits that regulate co-ordinated bladder and urethral sphincter function, leading to involuntary and inefficient voiding. Following SCI, a spinal micturition reflex pathway develops to induce an overactive bladder condition following the initial areflexic phase. In addition, without proper bladder-urethral-sphincter coordination after SCI, the bladder is not emptied as effectively as in the normal condition. Previous studies using animal models of SCI have shown that hyperexcitability of C-fiber bladder afferent pathways is a fundamental pathophysiological mechanism, inducing neurogenic LUTD, especially detrusor overactivity during the storage phase. SCI also induces neurogenic LUTD during the voiding phase, known as detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, likely due to hyperexcitability of Aδ-fiber bladder afferent pathways rather than C-fiber afferents. The molecular mechanisms underlying SCI-induced LUTD are multifactorial; previous studies have identified significant changes in the expression of various molecules in the peripheral organs and afferent nerves projecting to the spinal cord, including growth factors, ion channels, receptors and neurotransmitters. These findings in animal models of SCI and neurogenic LUTD should increase our understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms of LUTD after SCI for the future development of novel therapies for SCI patients with LUTD.

Determination of tibial somatosensory evoked potentials predicts detrusor sphincter dyssynergia in children with neurogenic bladder dysfunction.

Tibial somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP) are used to identify the neurological status and tethered cord (TC) in patients with spina bifida (SB). Its significance in contributing to the interpretation of urodynamics to determine bladder status is unknown. This study aimed to determine the correlation between SEP and urodynamics in children with SB. SEP and urodynamic results, for differential diagnosis of TC, were evaluated. SEP scores were correlated with urodynamic findings. SEP results were scored from 1 to 6, with 1, denoting a favorable score and 6, an unfavorable score. Age, gender, detrusor, and sphincter activities in urodynamics were noted. Results were analyzed using the χ2 test and logistic regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was formed to get a valid threshold for the SEP score to predict the urodynamic condition. There were 44 SB patients for whom SEP was done for differential diagnosis of TC. Fifteen patients who did not meet the inclusion criteria were excluded from the study. SB aperta was present in 17 patients and occulta in 12, respectively. The patients had a mean age of 6.6 ± 3.2 years. There were 13 boys and 16 girls. A strong correlation was found between high SEP scores and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (p < 0.001). A SEP score over 3.5 was found to be 93% sensitive and 73% specific to predict this correlation. There was no relationship between detrusor activity and SEP scores (p = 0.18). Tibial SEP is an important noninvasive adjunct tool for the diagnosis of TC in patients with SB. Urodynamic studies are the gold standard in the evaluation of bladder status in neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to SB. Detrusor sphincter dyssynergia may be regarded as a sign of severe spinal cord injury in these patients. Our findings suggest that in children with neurogenic bladder, high SEP scores may predict the presence of detrusor sphincter dyssynergia but not the status of detrusor function while providing pathophysiological evidence for neural injury.

PD06-12 INTER- AND INTRA-RATER VARIABILITY OF VIDEOURODYNAMIC STUDY INTERPRETATION AMONG UROLOGIC SURGEONS FOR PATIENTS WITH SPINA BIFIDA

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023PD06-12 INTER- AND INTRA-RATER VARIABILITY OF VIDEOURODYNAMIC STUDY INTERPRETATION AMONG UROLOGIC SURGEONS FOR PATIENTS WITH SPINA BIFIDA Maria Antony, John K. Weaver, Madalyne Martin-Olenski, Joseph Logan, Reiley Broms, David Ostrowski, Jason Van Batavia, Dana A. Weiss, Christopher J. Long, Ariana L. Smith, Jing Huang, Stephen A. Zderic, Yong Fan, and Gregory E. Tasian Maria AntonyMaria Antony More articles by this author , John K. WeaverJohn K. Weaver More articles by this author , Madalyne Martin-OlenskiMadalyne Martin-Olenski More articles by this author , Joseph LoganJoseph Logan More articles by this author , Reiley BromsReiley Broms More articles by this author , David OstrowskiDavid Ostrowski More articles by this author , Jason Van BataviaJason Van Batavia More articles by this author , Dana A. WeissDana A. Weiss More articles by this author , Christopher J. LongChristopher J. Long More articles by this author , Ariana L. SmithAriana L. Smith More articles by this author , Jing HuangJing Huang More articles by this author , Stephen A. ZdericStephen A. Zderic More articles by this author , Yong FanYong Fan More articles by this author , and Gregory E. TasianGregory E. Tasian More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003230.12AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Videourodynamics (VUDS) provides functional insight into bladder storage and micturition, particularly in children with neurogenic bladder who are at risk of upper tract injury. These studies can serve as drivers for both medical and surgical decision-making, as well as intervention escalation. However, VUDS interpretation is at threat of both intra- and inter-observer variability. Efforts exist to improve standardization, but it is unclear the extent to which surgeons’ interpretations vary. In this study, we evaluated variability in interpretation of upper tract deterioration secondary to bladder dysfunction in a sample of children with spina bifida. METHODS: A total of 303 VUDS studies were evaluated from 256 unique patients between 2 months to 28 years of age. An initial pilot study of 10 VUDS studies were assessed by 5 fellowship trained urologists to align on risk stratification criteria of 3 graded categories (mild, moderate, or severe). Criteria considered to assess upper tract deterioration included bladder compliance, elevated detrusor leak point pressure, and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia from pressure volume tracings and fluoroscopy images. Subsequently, 303 VUDS studies were randomized to 5 reviewers such that each study received a minimum of 3 reviews. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to reliability of average and single raters. Reviewers also reassessed a portion (range: 5-16%) of same studies within 6 months of their first review. Percent agreement was determined for each surgeon between initial and repeat reviews, as well as initial review and group consensus. RESULTS: Among the 303 VUDS studies, single and average raters’ intraclass correlation (ICC) was 0.67(95% CI: 0.62-0.71) and 0.91(95% CI: 0.89-0.92), respectively. At least one reviewer showed disagreement with other reviewers in 37.3% (113/303) of cases. There was a sole case (0.3%, 1/303) in which 3 different risk scores were assigned to the same patient. Among the sample of studies that were reassessed for intrarater reliability, median agreement of a single urologist with their previous risk score was 76.25% (IQR: 68.75-78.525). Median agreement of a single urologist with group consensus was 80.4% (IQR: 75-81.6). CONCLUSIONS: Class reliability trended upwards with raters average compared to a single rater, showing moderate and good reliability respectively. Single rater inter- and intra-rater variation may compound across serial urodynamic evaluation in clinical and research uses of VUDS to evaluate upper tract deterioration. Source of Funding: NA © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e160 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Maria Antony More articles by this author John K. Weaver More articles by this author Madalyne Martin-Olenski More articles by this author Joseph Logan More articles by this author Reiley Broms More articles by this author David Ostrowski More articles by this author Jason Van Batavia More articles by this author Dana A. Weiss More articles by this author Christopher J. Long More articles by this author Ariana L. Smith More articles by this author Jing Huang More articles by this author Stephen A. Zderic More articles by this author Yong Fan More articles by this author Gregory E. Tasian More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...