International children's continence society's recommendations for therapeutic intervention in congenital neuropathic bladder and bowel dysfunction in children

Results of a defined surgical protocol for treating pediatric neurogenic bladder incontinence in a single institution

INTRODUCTION

Incontinent pediatric neurogenic bladder (NB) patients face social ostracization and potential renal deterioration. Reconstructive surgery, after maximal medical therapy, requires a difficult decision-making process. Current literature for NB surgeries is difficult to interpret given definitions of dryness, use of augmentation cystoplasty (AC) and the lack of renal preservation. This study assesses the results of a defined surgical protocol to treat incontinent NB patients, using a new composite outcome measure, which includes upper tracts status and a definition of dryness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study assessing 33 consecutive incontinent NB patients (Spina bifida 31, Sacral agenesis- 2) who underwent one of 2 procedures between 2008 and 2021. AC with a Mitrofanoff procedure (MP) was performed in patients who had a high detrusor leak point pressure (DLPP) and significant bladder trabeculations (N = 21, Group 1). Children with a low DLPP and non-trabeculated bladders, underwent a modified Young-Dees-Leadbetter/Mitchell procedure with a 360° autologous rectus fascial sling (BOP) with concomitant AC and MP (N-12, Group 2). Post-operative success was defined using a composite grading of success assessing dryness, upper tract stability and medication use.

RESULTS

The mean age at surgery was 11.6 years (SD = 6 years), with 21 in Group 1 and 12 in Group 2. Mean follow-up was 3.25 years, with a minimum 24-month follow-up period. Success rate was 90% in Group 1 and 66% in Group 2. No patient had upper tract deterioration following surgery. Redo-surgical intervention, was required in 38% of Group 1 and 50% of Group 2 patients. These include 3 bladder neck injections in Group 1 and 2 bladder neck closure in Group 2, with a final success rate to 95 % in Group 1 and 83 % in Group 2.

DISCUSSION

Achieving dryness and preserving upper tracts is a challenge in incontinent NB patients. Dryness rates achieved in this study is comparable, given complications and redo-surgery. Primary bladder neck closure is a radical intervention, but Group 2 patients, may benefit from an upfront discussion of the pros and cons of a bladder neck closure primarily or as a secondary procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated AC obtains acceptable results for a selected subset of incontinent NB patients with significant bladder trabeculation. For those requiring a BOP, the success rate is relatively lower with the higher rate of potential complications and need for redo-surgery.

Is Collaborative Care the Future of Medicine? Lessons Learned from the Care of Children with Colorectal Conditions

The treatment of patients with colorectal disorders requires care from a wide variety of medical and surgical specialties over the course of their lifetime. This is ideally handled by a collaborative center which facilitates the assessment and development of patient care among multiple specialties which can enhance the quality and implementation of treatment plans, improve communication among different specialties, decrease morbidity, and improve patient satisfaction and outcomes. This collaborative approach can serve as a model for other parts of medicine requiring a similar multi-disciplinary and integrated method of care delivery. We describe the process, as well as the lessons learned in developing such a program.

Comparison of the efficiency of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and manual therapy in children with cerebral palsy with lower urinary system dysfunction- a randomized prospective trial

INTRODUCTION

Neurological defects in children with cerebral palsy (CP) not only affect their motor skills but also lead to bladder and bowel problems. Although most children with CP have achieved urinary control, more than 50% of cases experience lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Common LUTS complaints observed in CP include delayed toilet training, urinary incontinence, increased frequency of urination, urgency, urinary hesitancy, and recurrent urinary tract infections.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to prospectively evaluate and compare the effectiveness of two different physiotherapy approaches, sacral Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and massage, on lower urinary tract dysfunction in children with CP.

METHOD

A total of 54 children with CP who had the Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVISS) of 8.5 or higher were included in the study. Children were randomized to the TENS (TG; n = 27) and Manual Therapy (MG; n = 27) groups. TENS application was performed 2 sessions in a week for 20 min for a total of 12 weeks. The electrodes used during the application were adhered bilaterally to the parasacral region (S2-S4). 4 electrodes of 5 × 5 cm were used. Classical bowel massage was applied to the MG with the friction massage technique twice a week for 12 weeks. Manual therapy applications were performed in the form of abdominal, colon, and friction massage, twice a week for 20 min by the physiotherapist. Massage was applied to the abdominal region between the lower subcostal border and the anterior superior iliac spine. Questionnaires were applied before and after treatment interventions: DVISS, functional bladder capacity (FBC), frequency of voiding, and urinary incontinence episodes evaluated by bladder diary, Bristol Gaita Scale, and Pediatric Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (PIN-Q) used.

RESULTS

The decrease in the episodes of incontinence was higher in the TG (p = 0.037; p < 0.05). FBC increased after treatment in both groups, but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.683; p > 0.05). Manual therapy was more effective in improving constipation symptoms. In both groups, DVISS and PIN-Q values decreased after treatment, but the decrease in TG was statistically significant in the evaluation made between groups (p = 0.001; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Both parasacral TENS and massage provided a significant improvement in LUTS, constipation, and quality of life but TENS showed a bigger improvement. We suggest adding these interventions to the treatment of bladder and bowel problems in CP children.

Multidisciplinary management of people with spina bifida across the lifespan

The average worldwide prevalence of neural tube defects (NTDs) is 1.0 per 1000 births. Its development is multifactorial due to genetic and non-genetic factors. Spina bifida (SB) is one of main representatives of NTD. The spinal cord lesion level is the main determinant of the level of paralysis, numbness, and difficulties with bladder/bowel functions. Myelomeningocele prenatal repair reduces hydrocephalus and hindbrain herniation and improves motor function. The severity of hydrocephalus is associated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes whether operated on prenatally or after birth. People with SB tend to have a lower IQ and cognitive difficulties. Early diagnosis, proactivity, and lifelong multidisciplinary follow-up are key protective issues. Invasive urological interventions should be considered in selected patients after failure of conservative treatment. Transition to adult care should be well planned as it is challenging. Health literacy is directly associated with success at transition. Sexuality and fertility should be addressed before/during puberty. Overall, the rates of fecal and urinary continence and skin breakdown increase with age, whereas the ability to ambulate declines with age. Bowel and urinary incontinence are independent predictors of lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adults with SB. Bowel incontinence has negative impact on HRQoL regardless of frequency or amount. Long-term caregiver support should be offered at diagnosis. Survival at a mean of 50 years is poor, at 32%, due to central nervous system deaths, cancer, urological disease, and sepsis. Challenges to implementation of recommended practices exist, especially in low and middle-income countries.

The urological evaluation and management of neurogenic bladder in children and adolescents-what every pediatric nephrologist needs to know

Neurogenic bladder (NGB) is an encompassing term that includes multiple causes of bladder dysfunction linked to a congenital or acquired neurological condition that adversely impacts the innervation of the lower urinary tract. Multiple static or progressive conditions can be associated with NGB in pediatric and adolescent patients. Currently, spinal dysraphism (i.e., spina bifida) is one of the most common etiologies, which occurs in 3-4 per 10,000 live births in developed nations. Abnormal bladder dynamics can lead to kidney damage secondary to high pressures or recurrent infections, as well as urinary incontinence. The current management paradigm centers on a proactive approach to preserving kidney function and achieving continence through behavioral, pharmacological, and surgical means. This educational review highlights the key components of urological management to maximize collaboration with pediatric nephrologists.

Initial experience with ACT™ periurethral adjustable balloons to treat urinary incontinence due to intrinsic sphincter deficiency in the pediatric population

PURPOSE

To present our initial experience with periurethral adjustable continence therapy (ACT™) for urinary incontinence due to intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) in children.

METHODS

This is an approved prospective non-randomized pilot study (NCT03351634) aiming to treat children born with spinal dysraphism (SD) or exstrophy epispadias complex (EEC) with ACT™. Endpoints were patient-reported changes in daily pad count, 24-h Pad test and complications.

RESULTS

Since April 2018, 13 children (six girls, seven boys) were implanted at the median age of 12 years (5-16). The etiology of incontinence was neurogenic ISD (7/13, 54%) and EEC (6/13, 46%). After ACT™ implantation, continence (no pad or 1 security pad/day) was achieved in 9(69%) patients (5/7 SD, 4/6 EEC). Additionally, two (15%) patients had a significant improvement (decreasing Pad test from 1049 to 310 g at 3 months). One patient (7%) had no improvement. Results were stable at 21 months (6-43) of follow-up. Mean final balloon volume was 2.89 ml (± 0.85) with a median of 3 fillings to obtain continence. We had four revisions due to cutaneous port erosion (n = 3) and balloon migration (n = 1) and two definitive explantations. PinQ score was significantly improved (47 vs 40.5 with balloon, p = ns). Neither degradation of the upper urinary tract nor cystomanometric changes have been observed at 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Urinary incontinence due to ISD owing to EEC or SD can be successfully treated with ACT™ periurethral balloons. Given the minimal invasiveness of this therapy, it might be a first-line option treatment in children with complex stress urinary incontinence.

Patient driven change: Is collaborative care the future of medicine? Lessons learned from the care of children with colorectal problems

A basic premise in the care of complex patients is that experience, increased volume of cases, and an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach yields improved outcomes. Is this true using the example of the care of children with colorectal and pelvic reconstructive needs? This review gives a brief historical context on how care for this patient group evolved, delineates the key elements to create a collaborative care model, and describes multiple advances that have been developed, based on the model, which have improved patient care and quality of life. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Review.

Pediatric neurogenic bowel dysfunction: ICCS review document

INTRODUCTION

The International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) aims to improve the quality of life in children with lower urinary tract dysfunction. A substantial portion of children also have problems with bowel dysfunction. There is a lack of evidence-based information on managing neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) in children.

OBJECTIVE/METHODS

The ICCS aimed to provide an up-to-date, selective, non-systematic review of NBD's definitions, assessment, and treatment.

RESULTS

Specific definitions and terminology are defined within the document. Recommendations and considerations for physical assessment, history taking, and diagnostic studies are made. Management updates, both surgical and non-surgical, are provided as well as recommendations for follow-up and monitoring of individuals with NBD.

CONCLUSION

This review of the current literature will help guide NBD management and research to improve NBD care.

Cecostomy tubes improve bowel continence for pediatric patients with spina bifida: A retrospective analysis of outcomes from a single clinic

PURPOSE

Pediatric patients with spina bifida often experience neurogenic bowel dysfunction. Although cecostomy tubes could improve bowel continence, their effectiveness is not well established in this population. The aims of this study were to better understand the effectiveness of cecostomy tubes relative to other management strategies (between-subject) and to explore their effectiveness among patients who received these placements (within-subject).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of data from pediatric patients enrolled in a national spina bifida patient registry (n = 297) at a single multidisciplinary clinic was performed, covering visits between January 2014 -December 2021. Linear and ordinal mixed effect models (fixed and random effects) tested the influence of cecostomy status (no placement vs placement) and time (visits) on bowel continence while controlling for demographic and condition-specific covariates.

RESULTS

Patients with cecostomy tubes had higher bowel continence compared to patients without placements (B = 0.695, 95% CI [0.333, 1.050]; AOR = 2.043, p = .007). Patients with cecostomy tubes had higher bowel continence after their placements compared to before (B = 0.834, 95% CI [0.142, 1.540]; AOR = 3.259, p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Results indicate cecostomy tubes are effective for improving bowel continence in this pediatric population. Future research is needed to conduct risk analyses and determine the clinical significance of these effects.

The art of introducing clean intermittent catheterization: How families respond and adapt: A qualitative study

INTRODUCTION

Since its inception >50 years ago, clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) has become ubiquitous in managing lower urinary tract dysfunction in children. Emphasis has been on its impact on daily life, but little on its implementation and adjustment in families. The aim of the current study was to discover how families learned to implement and manage their child's CIC needs by interviewing caregivers, adolescents, and young adults about their experiences. Interviews were designed to uncover facilitators and barriers to beginning CIC to initiate potential improvements in a multidisciplinary approach.

METHODS

A semi-structured interview guide was developed and piloted initially to 12 families for validation. Between August 2018 and October 2019, 40 families (52 interviews of caregivers and patients >12 years) were then interviewed with open-ended questions interspersed with more specific ones to generate discussion. Transcripts were coded using Dedoose software to create a base list with emergent codes. Inductive and deductive methods were employed to generate themes. Consensus was reached during successive team meetings.

RESULTS

Five major and several subthemes emerged regarding implementation of CIC by caregivers and patients learning CIC for the first time. THEME 1: Parental reaction to CIC: Caregivers described benefits of an adjustment period on learning their child's need for CIC. Prenatal information to caregivers of spina bifida children gave them time to mentally process the need for CIC. THEME 2: Ease of learning CIC: impact of age and gender: caregivers identified advantages of initiating CIC in infancy. Caregivers speculated CIC was physically easier in boys than girls due to meatus location. Developmentally ready children expressed a desire for independence and privacy as they learned to initiate CIC. THEME 3: The impact of additional caregiver support in learning and performing CIC: presence of multiple caregivers optimized learning and implementation of CIC. Having secondary caregivers available provided peace of mind and more flexibility in maintaining reliable CIC care. Patients learning CIC found it helpful to have a parent present at the teaching session. Occasionally, female caregivers reported feelings of anger and frustration when male caregivers were reluctant to be involved in catheterization, irrespective of their child's gender. THEME 4: Satisfaction with healthcare team's approach: The healthcare team's responsiveness to their learning needs affected how they mastered CIC. The healthcare team's teaching and reassurance helped build caregiver confidence. Developmentally appropriate children were able to learn self-catheterization when supported by the healthcare team. Patients learning self-CIC articulated having a supportive healthcare team was helpful with implementation. THEME 5: Effect of CIC on employment status relative to job changes, insurance, and daycare: implementing and performing CIC presented a spectrum of issues related to employment. Educating employers regarding CIC facilitated a caregiver's ability to both remain at work and administer to their child. Caregivers underscored the importance of adequate insurance when considering employment choices. Concerns about daycare availability affected caregivers' work schedules.

CONCLUSIONS

It is anticipated this information will aid healthcare personnel to more effectively teach and initiate CIC in families, and in individuals learning for the first time. The findings should serve as the basis for conducting future patient satisfaction studies, which would determine the effectiveness and reproducibility of these approaches.

Fesoterodine treatment of pediatric patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity: A 24-week, randomized, open-label, phase 3 study

BACKGROUND

Neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) can damage the upper urinary tract leading to chronic renal impairment. Antimuscarinic therapy is used to improve urinary incontinence and protect the upper urinary tract in patients with NDO.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated safety and efficacy of fesoterodine, a muscarinic receptor antagonist, in 6‒<18-year-old patients with NDO (NCT01557244).

STUDY DESIGN

This open-label phase 3 study included 2 pediatric cohorts. Patients in Cohort 1 (bodyweight >25 kg) were randomized to fesoterodine 4 or 8 mg extended-release tablets or oxybutynin XL tablets administered over the 12-week active comparator-controlled phase. The safety extension phase evaluated fesoterodine 4 and 8 mg for a further 12 weeks, with patients in the oxybutynin arm allocated to fesoterodine 4 or 8 mg. Patients in Cohort 2 (bodyweight ≤25 kg) were randomized to fesoterodine 2 or 4 mg extended-release beads-in-capsule (BIC) administered over a 12-week efficacy phase and 12-week safety extension phase. Patients with stable neurologic disease and clinically or urodynamically proven NDO were included. The primary endpoint was change from baseline to Week 12 in maximum cystometric bladder capacity (MCC). Secondary efficacy endpoints included detrusor pressure at maximum bladder capacity, bladder volume at first involuntary detrusor contraction, bladder compliance, and incontinence episodes. Safety endpoints included adverse event incidence, and specific assessments of cognition, behavior and vision. The pharmacokinetics of 5-hydroxymethyl tolterodine (5-HMT; fesoterodine's active metabolite) was determined using population-pharmacokinetic analysis.

RESULTS

In Cohort 1 (n = 124), fesoterodine 4 and 8 mg treatment resulted in significant increases from baseline in the primary endpoint of MCC at Week 12. In Cohort 2 (n = 57), fesoterodine 2 and 4 mg BIC treatment resulted in improvements in MCC from baseline. Fesoterodine 4 and 8 mg and fesoterodine 4 mg BIC led to improvements in some secondary efficacy endpoints. The most common treatment-related adverse reactions were gastrointestinal effects, such as dry mouth, which occurred more frequently with oxybutynin than fesoterodine. No detrimental effects on visual accommodation or acuity, or on cognitive function or behavior were observed.

DISCUSSION

These safety and efficacy results are consistent with limited published data on fesoterodine treatment in pediatric populations with overactive bladder or NDO. Study limitations include the lack of placebo control and the small sample size, which limits the ability to make formal efficacy comparisons and detect rare adverse reactions.

CONCLUSION

Fesoterodine has a favorable benefit-risk profile in 6‒<18-year-old patients with NDO and may represent an additional option for pediatric NDO treatment.

Urodynamic evaluation of the efficacy of vibegron, a new β3-adrenergic receptor agonist, on lower urinary tract function in children and adolescents with overactive bladder

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB) is defined as an urgency symptom with or without urge incontinence, which is not due to known neurological abnormalities. Since children present with variable symptoms, pediatric nonneurogenic idiopathic OAB is a condition that is difficult to diagnose and treat. Although there are few reports on bladder function in pediatric patients compared to adult patients, it can be useful for diagnosis. Antimuscarinic therapy is the pharmacological mainstay of OAB management. However, antimuscarinic use is limited by side effects and Insufficient effects. Vibegron, a new drug with a different mechanism of action (β3-adrenoreceptor agonist), was recently introduced for treating OAB in adults but has not been studied in the pediatric population.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of vibegron in children and adolescents with idiopathic OAB.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective study enrolling pediatric patients with OAB whose symptoms did not improve with behavioral therapy or pharmaceutical therapy. Efficacy and tolerability were assessed via a question, and patients underwent video-urodynamic testing before and during treatment with once-daily 50 mg vibegron. Statistical differences were evaluated using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank tests.

RESULTS

Out of the 17 patients that were recruited, full study with two urodynamic studies were confirmed by 11 patients. OAB symptoms improved in 14 (82.4%) patients, and 3 patients discontinued treatment because of ineffectiveness. No patients discontinued treatment because of intolerance to vibegron. The median (IQR) first desire to void (133 [82-185]-161 [123-227] mL), bladder capacity (158 [136-238]-204 [150-257] mL), and bladder compliance (18.1 [9.1-76.7]-34.0 [30.0-82.3] mL/cm H₂O) improved significantly post treatment compared to before treatment. Detrusor overactivity disappeared in one of the eight patients with this condition. The parameters of voiding function did not change significantly after the administration of vibegron.

DISCUSSION

Treatment with vibegron significantly improved clinical and urodynamic parameters of pediatric OAB with no adverse effects. Little information is available regarding the feasibility of switching drugs when patients discontinue prior pharmacological therapy because of insufficient efficacy or poor tolerability in children. Vibegron may be a promising OAB treatment option with a better balance of efficacy and tolerability.

CONCLUSIONS

Vibegron is an alternative agent for pediatric patients with idiopathic OAB for improving both subjective symptoms and lower urinary tract function. Future prospective randomized studies with larger sample sizes must be conducted to validate the results of the present study.

A systematic review of paediatric neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction guidelines using the Appraisal of Guidelines and Research Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument

OBJECTIVE

To examine and critique current international clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) on management of paediatric neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) and assess the applicability of these guidelines to clinical practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of all CPGs on NLUTD published in English from the year 2010 to 2022. Six reviewers independently used the Appraisal of Guidelines and Research Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument to appraise all eligible CPGs. This instrument is comprised of 23 items organised into six quality domains. The scores for each item and domain were tabulated for each reviewer and interrater reliability was assessed for each domain using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

RESULTS

Six CPGs were appraised and these included: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), European Society for Paediatric Urology, International Children's Continence Society, Irish, Spina Bifida Association (SBA), and International Brazilian Journal of Urology guidelines. They had high mean standardised scores in the domain on 'scope and purpose' and 'clarity of presentation' but had low scores in the domain of 'applicability'. The top three CPGs based on overall score were the NICE, Irish and SBA guidelines and the reviewers had high degree of interrater reliability (ICC 0.912, P < 0.001). The mean scores in various domains for the top three guidelines were 95.8 (scope and purpose), 87.5 (stakeholder involvement), 69.1 (rigour of development), 94.0 (clarity of presentation), 68.4 (applicability), and 59.7 (editorial independence). The diagnostic and treatment recommendations of the top three guidelines were presented.

CONCLUSION

The existing CPGs on paediatric NLUTD provide high-quality evidence based recommendations. The NICE, Irish and SBA guidelines were the top three CPGs identified. They scored high on most domains except applicability and editorial independence. These domains need to be considered for future updates to improve the utility.

A multinational survey on the management of the urinary tract in newborns with spina bifida: Are we following current EAU/ESPU guidelines?

AIMS

In August 2019, the European Association of Urology (EAU) and European Society for Paediatric Urology (ESPU) published updated guidelines on the management of neurogenic bladder in children and adolescents. Our study aimed to establish whether members of the ESPU are adhering to these guidelines.

METHODS

We designed a survey comprising 26 questions using SurveyMonkey®. Respondents were asked about management of neurogenic bladder at birth in newborns with spina bifida (SB), urological investigations, as well as short and long-term follow-up in their institutions.

RESULTS

There were 103 respondents to the survey (754 recipients, giving a response rate of 14%) spanning 36 countries. 100% of respondents carry out a renal/bladder ultrasound at birth. Only 53% routinely commence clean intermittent catheterization soon after birth as recommended by the guidelines. Only 56% recommend anticholinergic medications after abnormal videourodynamics (VUDs). The guidelines recommend the use of continued antibiotic prophylaxis if there is evidence of vesicoureteral reflux and hostile bladder/non-conclusive results on VUDs which is followed by only 30% of providers. 63% of respondents carry out baseline VUDs at the recommended time. Seeing larger volumes of SB patients, having a formal SB protocol, having formal SB multidisciplinary clinics and working in a tertiary referral center did not make respondents more likely to adhere to guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

Our survey demonstrated that large variations from the EAU/ESPU guidelines exist in practice. The study confirms that further work is required across institutions and countries to implement these evidence-based recommendations for standardized practice.

Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction in Children and Adolescents

Neurogenic/neuropathic bowel dysfunction (NBD) is common in children who are affected by congenital and acquired neurological disease, and negatively impacts quality of life. In the past, NBD received less attention than neurogenic bladder, generally being considered only in spina bifida (the most common cause of pediatric NBD). Many methods of conservative and medical management of NBD are reported, including relatively recently Transanal Irrigation (TAI). Based on the literature and personal experience, an expert group (pediatric urologists/surgeons/gastroenterologists with specific experience in NBD) focused on NBD in children and adolescents. A statement document was created using a modified Delphi method. The range of causes of pediatric NBD are discussed in this paper. The various therapeutic approaches are presented to improve clinical management. The population of children and adolescents with NBD is increasing, due both to the higher survival rate and better diagnosis. While NBD is relatively predictable in producing either constipation or fecal incontinence, or both, its various effects on each patient will depend on a wide range of underlying causes and accompanying comorbidities. For this reason, management of NBD should be tailored individually with a combined multidisciplinary therapy appropriate for the status of the affected child and caregivers.

Treatment Experience of 210 Pediatric Patients With Extraordinary Daytime Urinary Frequency: A Prospective Study

Background: Lactulose can be used to manage chronic constipation and children who are withholding their bowel movements, but no studies are available regarding lactulose to treat pediatric extraordinary daytime urinary frequency (PEDUF). To explore the benefits of different therapeutic regimens (non-drug treatment vs. oral lactulose) in patients with PEDUF. Methods: This prospective study included PEDUF patients admitted to the Pediatric Center of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao) from January 2015 to December 2019. The patients randomized received non-drug treatment (counseling), drug treatment (lactulose), or combination therapy. A therapeutic effect was defined by a decrease of>10% of the urination frequency. Results: A total of 210 patients were included. They were 5.9 ± 0.4 years. There were 98 boys and 112 girls. Among the 210 patients, 82.4% (173/210) of their family members reported symptoms of constipation. Among the three groups, the response rate was 61.4% (43/70) in the non-drug treatment group, 90.0% (63/70) in the drug treatment group, and 91.4% (64/70) in the combination therapy group (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: The frequency of constipation in children with PEDUF is high. The use of a laxative, like lactulose, might achieve a high therapeutic response rate in children with PEDUF, higher than counseling alone. That might represent a valuable therapeutic strategy for PEDUF.

New and exciting advances in pediatric colorectal and pelvic reconstructive surgery - 2021 update

Caring for children with colorectal and pelvic reconstructive needs is complex and requires a lifelong commitment from clinicians devoted to the field. There has been a myriad of advances that have improved care and it has become clear that an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach maximizes the goal of improving the quality of life of children afflicted with these conditions. The purpose of this review is to briefly discuss the history of this field and to describe the key advances that have improved patients' lives.

Pharmacokinetics of solifenacin in pediatric populations with overactive bladder or neurogenic detrusor overactivity

The aim of this investigation was to characterize and compare the pharmacokinetics (PK) of the antimuscarinic drug solifenacin in pediatric patients with overactive bladder (OAB) or neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) utilizing data from three phase III trials. LION was a placebo-controlled, 12-week trial in children (5-<12 years) and adolescents (12-<18 years) with OAB. MONKEY and MARMOSET were open-label, 52-week trials in children and adolescents or younger children (6 months-<5 years), respectively, with NDO. During the trials, solifenacin doses could be titrated to weight-adjusted pediatric equivalent doses (PEDs) of 2.5, 5, 7.5, or 10 mg day-1 . Nonlinear mixed effects modeling was used to develop population PK models to characterize the PK in patients with either OAB or NDO. Overall, 194 children and adolescents received solifenacin. At the time of PK sampling, the majority (119/164 [72.6%] patients) were receiving PED10 once daily. All population models included first-order oral absorption, a lag time, and interindividual variability. PK analysis showed that apparent clearance was similar in both patient populations. Mean apparent oral plasma clearance (CL/F), apparent volume of distribution during the terminal phase (Vz /F), and terminal half-life (t1/2 ) were higher in adolescents than in children, but median time to maximum plasma concentration (tmax ) was similar. Dose-normalized exposure results were similar for both younger and older patients with OAB or NDO. In conclusion, population PK modeling was used to successfully characterize solifenacin PK in pediatric patients with OAB or NDO. Similar solifenacin PK characteristics were observed in both populations.

Efficacy and safety of Mirabegron as adjuvant treatment in children with refractory neurogenic bladder dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

When patients with neurogenic bladder become refractory, there are different alternatives, such as the use of β3-adreceptor agonists. The aim of the present study is to evaluate efficacy and safety of Mirabegron as adjuvant treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

37 patients under 18 years of age who underwent Mirabegron were retrospectively studied. The inclusion criteria were: cases with neurogenic bladder who were under clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) programs and refractory to oral oxybutynin (Group A) and/or onabotulinumtoxinA (Group B). Once refractory neurogenic bladder was confirmed by clinical and/or urodynamic studies, Mirabegron 25 mg/day was indicated and evaluation was performed in the third month without stopping therapy. Systolic/diastolic blood pressure and transaminases were monitored. Paired t test and Pearson's chi - squared test were used.

RESULTS

Maximum cystometric capacity increased significantly by 125 mL, from 322 to 446 ml (p < 0.0001). End-filling detrusor pressure decreased significantly by 12 cm H₂O, from 44 to 31 cm H₂O (p < 0.0001). The variation in both parameters was significant in Groups A and B. The presence of detrusor overactivity increased globally from 21 to 32% after starting Mirabegron, but the intensity of contractions was reduced in 20 cm H₂O. Of the 18 patients who were incontinent before, 13 cases (72%) remained dry after initiating therapy with Mirabegron. None of the patients stated having suffered any adverse effects. Blood pressure and transaminases showed no significant difference. None of the patients discontinued treatment due to intolerance to Mirabegron (Summary Table).

DISCUSSION

In our study the treatment with Mirabegron improved significantly the clinical and urodynamic parameters. A significant increase in bladder capacity and a significant decrease in end-filling detrusor pressure were observed in both groups. The intensity of overactivity was attenuated. According to the records of the voiding diary, over 70% of the incontinent patients became dry after the administration of Mirabegron. We did not observe any adverse effects. The most important limitations of the present study are its retrospective design, the small size of the sample population and of each group, and the use of only one dose of Mirabegron.

CONCLUSIONS

Mirabegron as adjuvant treatment in children with refractory neurogenic bladder increased bladder capacity, reduced intravesical pressure and helped achieve continence in more than two thirds of the sample population. Mirabegron was safe and well tolerated by children.

Urological Outcome after Fetal Spina Bifida Repair: Data from the Zurich Cohort

INTRODUCTION

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) represents a severe burden for patients with open spina bifida (OSB). The effect of fetal OSB repair on the urological outcome remains unclear, as controversial data exist. The aim of this study was to further increment existing outcome data and to demonstrate that our earlier published positive preliminary results are not erratic.

METHODS

Data from standardized urological follow-up appointments of patients with fetal OSB repair operated at our center were analyzed. Data were obtained from urodynamic studies (UDSs) and radiologic exams performed in the newborn (gestational age 37-39 weeks), at ages of 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, and then at yearly intervals.

RESULTS

Of 82 patients (mean age 2.6 years, range 6 months to 7 years), 26 (32%) had a normal bladder function as demonstrated by UDSs. Of the 56 (68%) patients with NLUTD, 29 (51%) patients showed initially a normal UDS, but developed NLUTD in the follow-up, 19 (66%) of them spontaneously and another 10 (34%) in association with growth and development, or surgery of inclusion cysts. Radiologic abnormalities (upper tract dilatation and vesico-uretero-renal reflux) were seen in 15%, mainly patients with NLUTD.

CONCLUSION

Our results add an important set of information to the existing body of evidence. The data reconfirm our earlier published favorable preliminary results and support other studies that show a possible benefit of prenatal OSB repair on the urological outcome, but they also demonstrate that the positive effect remains limited.

Four-hour voiding observation with provocation test reveals significant abnormalities of bladder function in newborns with spinal dysraphism

INTRODUCTION

Four-hour voiding observation with provocation test (VOP) using a scale, a damp detector and ultrasound for determination of residuals, is an easily performed non-invasive method for the evaluation of bladder function in newborns. Neonatal bladder function evaluated with VOP has been described for healthy newborns (HN) but not for children with spinal dysraphism (SD), for whom early bladder evaluation is essential for decisions regarding Clean Intermittent Catheterization and follow-up. The aim of the present study was to describe voiding observation with provocation test in newborns with spinal dysraphism and compare with corresponding data for healthy newborns.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

At a tertiary hospital, a 4 h voiding observation with provocation (VOP) was performed in 50 neonates (22 girls, 28 boys) with spinal dysraphism (37 open SD, 13 closed SD) consecutively evaluated for possible neurogenic bladder-sphincter dysfunction (1998-2019). All newborns with open SD and 4/13 with closed SD had been through postnatal neurosurgery before the test. Mean age was 10 days. Voiding observation was performed during 4 h with visual observation the fourth hour recording behavior and urinary flow (e.g. stream, dribbling). Finally, bladder provocations (e.g. suprapubic compression) were performed, and any leakage was noted. Findings were compared to those of 50 healthy newborns (HN) earlier published (Gladh et al., 2002). There were no significant differences in background data such as gender, age or diuresis between newborns with SD and HN.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Voiding observation with provocation test of children with SD revealed significant differences compared to HN see summary table. Some children with SD had frequent small voids/leakages and low bladder volumes while three had no voiding and high volumes. Leakage during bladder provocation test and not voiding with a stream was not seen in HN but were common in newborns with SD (69% resp. 74%) (p < 0.01). A child with these findings should thus be investigated further. Identifying children needing Clean Intermittent Catheterization is important as well as being able to postpone or refrain from invasive urodynamic studies if not strongly indicated. VOP may give valuable information for these judgements.

CONCLUSION

Newborns with spinal dysraphism differ from healthy newborns in many aspects of bladder function. Bladder function varies between newborns with closed and open spinal dysraphism. Many newborns with spinal dysraphism leak at bladder provocation and void without a stream but healthy newborns do not. Early determination of post-void residuals is mandatory in children with spinal dysraphism and non-invasive VOP gives this information in a standardized way, also adding information on frequency, voiding with a stream and leakage at provocation.

Challenges in pediatric urologic practice: a lifelong view

The role of the pediatric urologic surgeon does not end with initial reconstructive surgery. Many of the congenital anomalies encountered require multiple staged operations while others may not involve further surgery but require a life-long follow-up and often revisions. Management of most of these disorders must extend into and through adolescence before transitioning these patients to adult colleagues. The primary goal of management of all congenital uropathies is protection and/or reversal of renal insult. For posterior urethral valves, in particular, avoidance of end-stage renal failure may not be possible in severe cases due to the congenital nephropathy but usually can be prolonged. Likewise, prevention or minimization of urinary tract infections is important for overall health and eventual renal function. Attainment of urinary continence is an important goal for most with a proven positive impact on quality of life; however, measures to achieve that goal can require significant efforts for those with neuropathic bladder dysfunction, obstructive uropathies, and bladder exstrophy. A particular challenge is maximizing future self-esteem, sexual function, and reproductive potential for those with genital anomalies such as hypospadias, the bladder exstrophy epispadias complex, prune belly syndrome, and Mullerian anomalies. Few endeavors are rewarding as working with children and their families throughout childhood and adolescence to help them attain these goals, and modern advances have enhanced our ability to get them to adulthood in better physical and mental health than ever before.

Long-term efficacy and safety of solifenacin in pediatric patients aged 6 months to 18 years with neurogenic detrusor overactivity: results from two phase 3 prospective open-label studies

INTRODUCTION

The standard recommended treatment for neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) is clean intermittent catheterization combined with an antimuscarinic agent. However, the adverse systemic side-effects of oxybutynin, the most widely used agent, are of concern.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of solifenacin in pediatric patients with NDO, aged 6 months-<5 years and 5-<18 years.

STUDY DESIGN

Two open-label, baseline-controlled, phase 3 studies were conducted in pediatric patients with NDO. Patients were treated with sequential doses of solifenacin oral suspension (pediatric equivalent doses 2.5-10 mg) for 12 weeks to determine each patient's optimal dose, followed by a fixed dose ≥40-week treatment period. Primary efficacy endpoint was change from baseline in maximum cystometric capacity (MCC) after 24 weeks. Secondary endpoints included bladder compliance, bladder volume until first detrusor contraction (>15 cmH₂O), number of overactive detrusor contractions (>15 cmH₂O), maximum catheterized volume (MCV)/24 h, and incontinence episodes/24 h. Safety parameters were treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), serious adverse events, laboratory variables, vital signs, electrocardiograms, and ocular accommodation and cognitive function assessments.

RESULTS

After 24 weeks, MCC had significantly increased compared with baseline in patients aged 6 months -<5 years and 5-<18 years (37.0 ml and 57.2 ml, respectively; P < 0.001; Fig.). Improvement was also observed after 52 weeks' treatment. Significant changes were observed from baseline to week 24 in all secondary endpoints in both age groups: increase in bladder compliance, increase in bladder volume to first detrusor contraction as a percentage of expected bladder capacity, reduction in the number of overactive detrusor contractions, increase in MCV, and decreased incontinence episodes. TEAEs were mostly mild or moderate, and there were no new drug-related TEAEs compared with adult studies. Age-related improvements were noted in ocular accommodation and cognitive function.

DISCUSSION

These long-term multicenter investigations demonstrated the efficacy and safety of solifenacin in pediatric patients with NDO. The observed increases in MCC were clinically relevant and demonstrated that an increase in fluid volume can be accommodated in the bladder prior to reaching intravesical pressures that endanger kidney function and/or are associated with leakage or discomfort. Solifenacin was well tolerated with low incidences of constipation and dry mouth (typically associated with antimuscarinics), central nervous system-related side-effects, and facial flushing.

CONCLUSION

Solifenacin was effective and well tolerated in pediatric patients with NDO, aged 6 months-<18 years, suggesting that it is a viable alternative to oxybutynin, the current standard of care. STUDIES ARE REGISTERED AT CLINICALTRIALS.GOV: NCT01981954 and NCT01565694.

Role of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation in Treating Children With Overactive Bladder From Pooled Analysis of 8 Randomized Controlled Trials

Purpose

Transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation (TENS), as a non-invasive modality, has been clinically used as an alternative treatment for children with overactive bladder (OAB). We conducted a pooled analysis to explore the effect of TENS on OAB.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guideline was followed in this study. The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, as well as the reference lists of the retrieved studies, were used to find trials relevant for assessing the use of TENS to treat OAB.

Results

Of the 246 records identified, 8 publications were analyzed in our study. Our analysis found that TENS resulted in a greater decrease of wet days/wk, daily voiding frequency, daily incontinence episodes, and daily number of voids than was observed in the control group. Furthermore, TENS-treated patients showed similar visual analogue scale (VAS) scores to patients in the control group, demonstrating that the application of TENS did not increase patients’ discomfort and pain. TENS had a relative advantage in the number of partial responses, but no clear differences were found in frequency of no response or a full response compared to the control group. In urodynamic testing, TENS led to obvious improvements in average voided volume and maximum voided volume in children with OAB.

Conclusions

TENS had a remarkable effect on the improvement of urodynamic indexes and objective OAB symptoms without a significant increase in VAS scores for children with OAB.

Need for botulinum toxin injection and bladder augmentation after isolated bladder outlet procedure in pediatric patients with myelomeningocele

INTRODUCTION

In patients with neurogenic bladder outlet incompetence, a bladder outlet procedure (BOP) may be required to achieve urinary continence. However, when performed in isolation, a BOP can be associated with bladder deterioration and upper-tract injury. In the event of bladder deterioration, additional procedures such as bladder augmentation (BA) or botulinum toxin injection (BTI) may be pursued.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess long-term outcomes after isolated BOP in a pediatric myelomeningocele (MMC) population, including the need for additional surgical intervention in the form of BTI or BA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed for patients with MMC who underwent an isolated BOP between 2004 and 2017. Primary outcomes included the need for postoperative BTI or BA. Secondary outcomes included the association between preoperative urodynamic parameters and need for BTI or BA.

RESULTS

BTI or BA was performed in 18 of 36 (50%) patients at a median of 17.8 months (IQR 11.2-29.3) after an isolated BOP. A median of 1 (IQR 1-3) BTI was performed in 11 (30.6%) patients. BA was performed in 9 (25%) patients, including 2 patients who previously underwent BTI. Patients who did not undergo BTI or BA after BOP had a slightly increased percentage estimated bladder capacity at the end of follow-up (107% versus 95%, p=0.42). By contrast, patients who underwent BTI or BA had a post-BOP percentage estimated bladder capacity that decreased from 112 to 70% (p < 0.001), increased maximum detrusor leak point pressure from 43 to 67 cm H₂O (p = 0.01), and higher rate of de novo upper-tract changes. Unfortunately, no preoperative clinical, radiographic, or urodynamic factors predicted the need for BTI or BA.

DISCUSSION

On time-to-event analysis, the risk of BTI or BA was 53% at 5 years in our cohort. Risk of these procedures was highest in the first two years after BOP. 9 of 11 (82%) patients who underwent BTI had improvement in bladder dynamics and BA was not pursued. These findings suggest that BTI provides a less-morbid alternative to BA in patients with MMC and de novo adverse bladder storage changes after an isolated BOP.

CONCLUSION

The need for BTI or BA after an isolated BOP is significant in patients with MMC. BTI offers a less-invasive alternative to BA in this population.

Pediatric Neurogenic Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: Will My Child Ever Be out of Diapers?

CONTEXT

Managing patient and parent expectations regarding urinary and fecal continence is important with congenital conditions that produce neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction. Physicians need to be aware of common treatment algorithms and expected outcomes to best counsel these families.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically evaluate evidence regarding the utilization and success of various modalities in achieving continence, as well as related outcomes, in children with neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We performed a systematic review of the literature in PubMed/Medline in August 2019. A total of 114 publications were included in the analysis, including 49 for bladder management and 65 for bowel management.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Children with neurogenic bladder conditions achieved urinary continence 50% of the time, including 44% of children treated with nonsurgical methods and 64% with surgical interventions. Patients with neurogenic bowel problems achieved fecal continence 75% of the time, including 78% of patients treated with nonsurgical methods and 73% with surgical treatment. Surgical complications and need for revisions were high in both categories.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately half of children with neurogenic bladder dysfunction will achieve urinary continence and about three-quarters of children with neurogenic bowel dysfunction will become fecally continent. Surgical intervention can be successful in patients refractory to nonsurgical management, but the high complication and revision rates support their use as second-line therapy. This is consistent with guidelines issued by the International Children's Continence Society.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Approximately half of children with neurogenic bladder dysfunction will achieve urinary continence, and about three-quarters of children with neurogenic bowel dysfunction will become fecally continent. Most children can be managed without surgery. Patients who do not achieve continence with nonsurgical methods frequently have success with operative procedures, but complications and requirements for additional procedures must be expected.

EAU/ESPU guidelines on the management of neurogenic bladder in children and adolescent part I diagnostics and conservative treatment

BACKGROUND

In childhood, the most common reason for a neurogenic bladder is related to spinal dysraphism, mostly myelodysplasia.

AIMS

Herein, we present the EAU/ESPU guidelines in respect to the diagnostics, timetable for investigations and conservative management including clean intermittent catheterization (CIC).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

After a systematic literature review covering the period 2000 to 2017, the ESPU/EUAU guideline for neurogenic bladder underwent an update.

RESULTS

The EAU/ESPU guideline panel advocates a proactive approach. In newborns with spina bifida, CIC should be started as soon as possible after birth. In those with intrauterine closure of the defect, urodynamic studies are recommended be performed before the patient leaves the hospital. In those with closure after birth urodynamics should be done within the next 3 months. Anticholinergic medication (oxybutynin is the only well-investigated drug in this age group-dosage 0.2-0.4 mg/kg weight per day) should be applied, if the urodynamic study confirmed detrusor overactivity. Close follow-up including ultrasound, bladder diary, urinalysis, and urodynamics are necessary within the first 6 years and after that the time intervals can be prolonged, depending on the individual risk and clinical course. In all other children with the suspicion of a neurogenic bladder due to various reasons as tethered cord, inflammation, tumors, trauma, or other reasons as well as those with anorectal malformations, urodynamics-preferable video-urodynamics, should be carried out as soon as there is a suspicion of a neurogenic bladder and conservative treatment should be started soon after confirmation of the diagnosis of neurogenic bladder. With conservative treatment the upper urinary tract is preserved in up to 90%, urinary tract infections are common, but not severe, complications of CIC are quite rare and continence can be achieved at adolescence in up to 80% without further treatment.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

The transition into adulthood is a complicated time for both patients, their caregivers and doctors, as the patient wants to become independent from caregivers and treatment compliance is reduced. Also, transition to adult clinics for patients with neurogenic bladders is often not well-established.

Immediate effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on urodynamic parameters of children with myelomeningocele

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the immediate response of electrical stimulation in children with neurogenic bladder (NB) due to myelomeningocele, using the urodynamic study (UDS).

METHODS

This is a nonrandomized intervention study with 26 children with neurogenic overactive bladder and low bladder compliance due to myelomeningocele, aged 5 to 15 years. Each child performed a routine UDS and then a second UDS, during which the electrical stimulation was applied in the parasacral region. The main outcome was the difference in the maximum bladder pressure observed between the two urodynamic studies, analyzed from the paired t test.

RESULTS

We found that 77% of the patients had a lower maximum bladder pressure in the test with electrostimulation compared with the ones without electrostimulation. On average, the pressure reduction after stimulation was 7.24 cmH₂ O (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.35-14.14; P = .04). The reduction was even higher in children under 12 years of age, compared with the children above 12 years (11.29 cmH₂ O, 95% CI, 3.47-19.12; P = .01).

CONCLUSION

The use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation had a significant immediate effect on reducing the maximum bladder pressure during the urodynamic studies among the tested pediatric patients with NB. The results were more significant among children under 12 years of age.

Malone Antegrade Continence Enemas vs. Cecostomy vs. Transanal Irrigation-What Is New and How Do We Counsel Our Patients?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

No gold standard exists for managing neurogenic bowel dysfunction, specifically in individuals with spina bifida. Since the International Children's Continence Society published its consensus document on neurogenic bowel treatment in 2012, an increased focus on why we must manage bowels and how to improve our management has occurred. This review provides updated information for clinicians.

RECENT FINDINGS

A surge in research, mostly retrospective, has been conducted on the success and satisfaction of three types of management for neurogenic bowel. All three management techniques have relatively high success rates for fecal continence and satisfaction rates. Selection of which treatment to carry out still is debated among clinicians. Transanal irrigation is a safe and effective management option for neurogenic bowel that does not require surgery. Antegrade enemas can be carried out via cecostomy tube or Malone antegrade continence enema with similar fecal continence outcomes.

Sacral neuromodulation in congenital lumbo-sacral and traumatic spinal cord defects with neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms: a single-center experience in children and adolescents

PURPOSE

This study evaluated sacral neuromodulation's effectiveness for managing refractory neuropathic lower urinary tract dysfunction in children and adolescents.

METHODS

Twenty-five children and adolescents underwent peripheral nerve evaluation test phase of sacral neuromodulation at our center. Thirteen (seven boys and six girls) cases suffered from neuropathic lower urinary tract dysfunction refractory to the maximum medical treatment. The test was done with temporary wire in all patients. Patients with more than 50% improvement in symptoms were chosen for the second stage of implantation of quadripolar tined lead and implantable pulse generator. Bowel transit symptoms were recorded before and after the surgery.

RESULTS

Eight patients (61.53%; five boys and three girls) had positive responses to the peripheral nerve evaluation test phase. They underwent implantation of permanent quadripolar tined lead and implantable pulse generator. The etiologies were lumbosacral myelomeningocele, occult spina bifida, partial sacral agenesis and incomplete spinal cord injury. Positive clinical response (> 50% improvement in symptoms) was achieved in seven (85%) at a mean follow-up of 14.25 months. Three patients became capable to stop clean intermittent catheterization (P =0.125). The 24-h pad test decreased from 484 to 78 g from before to after the surgery (P =0.043).

CONCLUSION

This clinical study on a small sample size of children and adolescents demonstrates positive results in short-term follow-up. However, as the procedure is still not approved officially, multicenter studies with more patients can prove the safety and efficacy of sacral neuromodulation in long term among this special group of patients.

Long-term follow-up of bladder outlet procedures in children with neurogenic urinary incontinence

INTRODUCTION

Achieving continence in children with neurogenic sphincteric incompetence is a challenge. Awareness of the long-term outcome in this young patient population is important. In the past 25 years, the study institution has built experience in bladder outlet procedures such as bladder neck sling and bladder neck reconstructions.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome on continence and re-intervention rate of bladder outlet procedures in children with neurogenic urinary incontinence at the study institution.

DESIGN

All children who underwent a bladder neck procedure between 1992 and 2017 at the study institution were retrospectively reviewed. Continence at the end of follow-up was the primary endpoint, defined as 'dry' when there was an interval of a minimum of 4 h without urinary leakage. Non-parametric tests were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

During this 25-year period, a total of 60 children underwent a bladder outlet procedure, either a bladder neck sling (n = 43) or a bladder neck reconstruction (n = 17). The median age at surgery was 11.6 years (interquartile range [IQR] 7.8-13.9). Concomitant surgery consisted of bladder augmentation in 80% and continent catheterizable urinary channel in 97% of children. Dry rate within 1 year was 38%. After a median follow-up of 10.4 years (IQR 6.5-15.5), 77% of all children were dry. Twenty-five children (42%) needed one or more re-interventions, including redo of the bladder outlet procedure, other type of outlet procedure, bulking agents, bladder augmentation, and bladder neck closure.

DISCUSSION

This study confirms that achieving continence is a challenge. The inconsistent use of the definition of urinary continence creates confusion in the literature and makes comparison of outcome with other studies difficult. Openness of (long-term) results in achieving urinary continence is important and helpful for future patients.

CONCLUSION

On the long term, the majority of children with neurogenic urinary incontinence were dry after a bladder outlet procedure, but a considerable number of patients had a re-intervention. The initial outcome on continence was slightly disappointing. Reporting long-term results is essential and helpful for patient counseling.

Diagnosis and management of bladder bowel dysfunction in children with urinary tract infections: a position statement from the International Children's Continence Society

BACKGROUND

We present a consensus view from the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) on the evaluation and management of bladder bowel dysfunction (BBD) in children with urinary tract infection (UTI). The statement aims to highlight the importance of BBD in the development and recurrence of childhood UTI and its management to reduce its associated morbidity and sequelae.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was done on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases until August 15, 2016. Relevant publications concerning BBD and its relationship with UTI among children were reviewed and aggregated for statements of recommendation. Discussion by the ICCS Board and a multi-disciplinary core group of authors resulted in a document available on its website for all ICCS members to review. Insights and feedback were considered with consensus and agreement reached to finalize this position statement.

RESULTS

BBD in children with UTI is summarized. Details regarding epidemiology, pathophysiology, and recommendations for general and family practitioners and pediatricians relating to the evaluation and management of this condition are presented.

CONCLUSIONS

This document serves as the position statement from ICCS, based on literature review and expert opinion providing our current understanding of BBD in children with UTI.

Advances in paediatric urology

Paediatric urological surgery is often required for managing congenital and acquired disorders of the genitourinary system. In this Series paper, we highlight advances in the surgical management of six paediatric urological disorders. The management of vesicoureteral reflux is evolving, with advocacy ranging from a less interventional assessment and antimicrobial prophylaxis to surgery including endoscopic injection of a bulking agent and minimally invasive ureteric reimplantation. Evidence supports early orchidopexy to improve fertility and reduce malignancy in boys with undescended testes. A variety of surgical techniques have been developed for hypospadias, with excellent outcomes for distal but not proximal hypospadias. Pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction is mostly detected prenatally; indications for surgery have been refined with evidence, and minimally invasive pyeloplasty is now standard. The outlook for patients with neurogenic bladder has been transformed by a combination of clean intermittent catheterisation, algorithms of diagnostic investigations, and innovative medical and surgical therapies. Posterior urethral valves are associated with considerable mortality; fetal diagnosis allows stratification of candidates for intervention, but ongoing bladder dysfunction in patients after valve ablation remains a cause of long-term morbidity.

Initial urological evaluation and management of children with neurogenic bladder due to myelomeningocele

INTRODUCTION

The proactive management of children with myelomeningocele (MMC) has contributed to decreasing their progression to end-stage renal disease, thanks to early urological evaluation and timing implementation of treatments.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate that early urological evaluation of the urinary tract in MMC shows functional alterations in most cases, and that it requires medical intervention, even when in some cases the complementary imaging studies do not show any abnormalities.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study including 60 patients aged <1 year with MMC who were followed by a multidisciplinary team. All of them underwent renal/bladder ultrasound, videourodynamic studies, renal scintigraphy/dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), and laboratory tests for kidney function. The studied variables were: bladder capacity and pressure, presence of overactivity, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), urinary dilations and abnormalities on renal scintigraphy/DMSA. All the patients received clean intermittent catheterization (CIC).

RESULTS

See Summary Table all the patients showed alterations in at least some of the assessed urodynamic variables: reduced cystometric capacity, 21.6%; detrusor overactivity, 55%; end filling detrusor pressure >20 cm H₂O, 43.3%; inefficient bladder voiding, 98.3%; indirect dyssynergic patterns, 28.8%. The high-risk videourodynamic findings were observed in 28 cases (46.6%). DMSA was abnormal in 30%. Renal impairment was detected in 6.6% of cases. A total of 66% of cases received oxybutynin.

DISCUSSION

Almost all the children in this sample population showed urinary dysfunction, and approximately half of them had high-risk videourodynamic findings. Although many cases showed reflex urinary contractions, almost the entire sample had inefficient bladder voiding. An important limitation of this work was the lack of simultaneity in obtaining each of the requested studies.

CONCLUSIONS

In the initial urological evaluation of patients with myelomeningocele, almost all the urodynamic studies showed abnormalities and one-third showed abnormal DMSA, which led to therapeutic actions being initiated, although imaging studies were normal in a great number of patients. CIC alone, starting immediately after birth, is not sufficient. To eliminate or decrease upper tract damage, oxybutynin should be started in addition.

Refractory Urinary Incontinence in Girls: The Role of the Bladder Neck

BACKGROUND

Prevalence of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in children is between 6 and 9% with urinary incontinence (UI) being one of the most common symptom.

VARIOUS ASPECTS OF LOWER URINARY TRACT SYMPTOMS LUTS

Anatomical anomalies of the urinary tract as well as neurogenic underlying pathology can results in LUTS. Comorbidities and long-term consequences of the LUTD for the female patients as well as genetic issues are also briefly discussed.

THE ROLE OF THE BLADDER NECK

Thanks to urodynamics, we have learnt a lot about the lower urinary tract function, but the role of the bladder neck in the pathophysiology of LUTS in children is not clear. Secondary bladder neck hypertrophy is a well-described pathology, but there is no standardized treatment for this phenomenon. Primary bladder neck dysfunction has already been defined by the International Children's Continence Society.

REFRACTORY UI IN GIRLS

Uniform diagnostic protocols are used in these girls with UI. Treatment consists of standard urotherapy, additional interventions, and pharmacotherapy in selected cases. Those with refractory UI require careful reassessment to look for the unrecognized disorders. Invasive urodynamics should be done in those patients. Ultrasound of the bladder neck region and the pelvic floor can be helpful, but its interpretation is very subjective. In a small group bladder neck insufficiency can be found and those might benefit from a surgical intervention.

FUTURE PERSPECTIVE

Strict criteria of the bladder neck insufficiency in children must be defined. Early surgical intervention in girls with bladder neck insufficiency might reduce the long period of intensive conservative treatment.

Electroneurostimulation for the management of bladder bowel dysfunction in childhood

Both non-invasive and invasive electroneurostimulation (ENS) modalities for bladder bowel dysfunction have been studied and reported in children. A summary of the proposed mechanism of actions and the more commonly used and recently reported techniques and outcomes are described. This includes transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, functional electrical nerve stimulation, intravesical electrical nerve stimulation, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation and sacral neuromodulation in conditions including overactive bladder, enuresis, dysfunctional voiding, constipation, combined bladder bowel dysfunction and neuropathic bladder and bowel dysfunction. There is a need for further high quality randomised trials as well as long-term outcomes to establish whether ENS is able to alter the long-term trajectory for an individual child with bladder bowel dysfunction.

British Association of Paediatric Urologists consensus statement on the management of the neuropathic bladder

INTRODUCTION

A large number of children with spina bifida develop a neuropathic bladder and this group of patients still forms the largest group of children who require urological management. Although there are published guidelines on the management of the neuropathic bladder, they are not specific to children. It is unsurprising, therefore, that the initial investigation, assessment and management of children with spina bifida vary considerably. The 2014 British Association of Paediatric Urologists (BAPU) meeting was devoted to the management of the neuropathic bladder. The aim was to produce a consensus on the appropriate investigation and management of a child with a neuropathic bladder.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A questionnaire was devised and the members were polled on their current practice. Six paediatric urology fellows presented an evidence-based literature review on different aspects of the neuropathic bladder. At the end of the session, the members of the organisation present were polled again using the same questions.

RESULTS

The BAPU felt that the use of urodynamics in the neuropathic bladder should be selectively determined by clinical parameters. Regarding CIC, the group was evenly split between universal use or only when poor emptying was established. Oxybutinin was the first-line anticholinergic of choice. Most paediatric urologists routinely used Botox and were happy to use it repeatedly. The surgical intervention most frequently employed was determined to be an ileocystoplasty, with most surgeons deferring the need for surveillance cystoscopy until at least 10 years after surgery.

CONCLUSION

It was felt that a consensus statement is not a guideline or a way to establish best practice; however, it serves as a way of surveying current practice and providing a benchmark for clinicians involved in the management of these patients.

The Posterior Sagittal Approach to Bladder Neck Closure in Patients With Anorectal Malformation: A Novel Collaborative Technique

Bladder neck closure may be beneficial in patients with refractory urinary incontinence secondary to outlet deficiency. The location of the bladder neck deep within the pelvis may make exposure difficult during an open approach. We describe a novel approach to bladder neck closure in patients with anorectal malformations using a posterior sagittal approach. Our approach provides superior visualization of the bladder neck and easy access to tissue to provide additional layers of coverage, and prevents the need for an abdominal incision in patients undergoing simultaneous rectal or vaginal surgeries.

Prospective evaluation of Peristeen® transanal irrigation system with the validated neurogenic bowel dysfunction score sheet in the pediatric population

AIMS

To determine the ability of Peristeen® transanal irrigation system to reduce symptoms of neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) in patients using the validated neurogenic bowel dysfunction scoring system for the pediatric population.

METHODS

Patients 3-21 years with NBD whose current bowel program was unsuccessful were given the Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction (NBoDS) score sheet before initiating Peristeen®, and at 2 weeks, 2 months, and 6 months after. All patients were started on Peristeen® with tap water (20 ml/kg) per daily irrigation. Mean and paired t-tests were completed.

RESULTS

24 patients were enrolled and had follow-up. Mean age was 10.5 years (range 3-21 years), 25%, 50%, 25% had thoracic, lumbar and sacral level lesions respectively. Mean NBoDS score at initiation of Peristeen® was 20.21 (±5.56), n = 24. The mean score after two weeks of use was 12.75 (±4.40), n = 24. There was a statistically significant decrease of 7.46 (95%CI, 5.07-9.84) points, t(23) = 6.47, P < 0.0005 after two weeks. There was a statistically significant decrease in their scores from initiation to the 2 month time period of 7.00 (95%CI, 2.18-11.82) points, t(9) = 3.29, P = 0.009. By the sixth month of daily use the mean NBoDS score was 9.67 (n = 12). This was an average decrease of 8.83 (95%CI, 5.39-12.28) points from initiation score, t(11) = 5.641, P < 0.005.

CONCLUSION

The Peristeen® transanal irrigation system provides a significant reduction in NBoDS scores in pediatric patients with NBD. Peristeen® should be considered when other conservative bowel management options have been unsuccessful. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:632-635, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Management of refractory overactive bladder in children by transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation: A controlled study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the objective efficacy of transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation in children presenting with overactive bladder resistant to well conducted treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

This was a randomized, double-blind, controlled study on 20 children with OAB. All patients were previously treated with anticholinergic drugs associated with detrusor rehabilitation, diet advice, bladder-voiding hygiene and constipation treatment, with poor clinical results. Patients were randomized into two groups: -Group A: treatment with PTNS (n = 11). -Group B: sham treatment (n = 9). The program lasted 12 consecutive weeks with two 30-minutes sessions a week. Each patient underwent pre-stimulation urodynamic testing to validate bladder overactivity followed by a post-stimulation testing. Pre- and post-stimulation urodynamic parameters were compared in order to objectively evaluate the treatment's efficacy. The patients noted their incontinence episodes for 7 consecutive days in a diary before the beginning of the program, in the middle and at the end of it: this led to computing an incontinence score (score ranged from 0 to 13, from good to poor). The difference between the pre-stimulation and post-stimulation score enabled to express clinical results in terms of poor (less than a 3-point decrease), medium (a 3 to 5-point decrease), good (6 to 8-point decrease), very good (final score ranged between 0 and 3). Children were questioned regarding their impression of being stimulated or not.

RESULTS

In Group A, there were five very good clinical results (45%), one medium (10%) and five poor results (45%). In group B, nine very good results (66%) and three poor results (33%) were noted. Regarding urodynamic testing, volume voided during urgency (184 mL to 265 mL), maximal cystomanometry volume (215 mL to 274 mL) and volume at the onset of the first overactive detrusor contraction (ODC) (48 mL to 174 mL) were significantly increased in Group A (p = 0.002, p = 0.024 and p = 0.001) and maximal bladder pressure during ODC had decreased (61 to 46) (p = 0.042). 85% children in group A thought they were being stimulated vs. 70% in group B.

CONCLUSION

Even though we noticed urodynamics improvements in group A, which objectively supports the efficacy of TCTPNS, clinical results remained the same between the two groups. In spite of the small size of our sample, this underlines the placebo effect of any type management in this pediatric population. Studying precisely the maximal useful voltage and duration of stimulation should then be relevant in order to yield maximal benefits from this easy-to-use procedure.

The standardization of terminology of lower urinary tract function in children and adolescents: Update report from the standardization committee of the International Children's Continence Society

AIM

The impact of the original International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) terminology document on lower urinary tract (LUT) function resulted in the global establishment of uniformity and clarity in the characterization of LUT function and dysfunction in children across multiple healthcare disciplines. The present document serves as a stand-alone terminology update reflecting refinement and current advancement of knowledge on pediatric LUT function.

METHODS

A variety of worldwide experts from multiple disciplines within the ICCS leadership who care for children with LUT dysfunction were assembled as part of the standardization committee. A critical review of the previous ICCS terminology document and the current literature was performed. Additionally, contributions and feedback from the multidisciplinary ICCS membership were solicited.

RESULTS

Following a review of the literature over the last 7 years, the ICCS experts assembled a new terminology document reflecting current understanding of bladder function and LUT dysfunction in children using the resources from the literature review, expert opinion and ICCS member feedback.

CONCLUSIONS

The present ICCS terminology document provides a current and consensus update to the evolving terminology and understanding of LUT function in children. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:471-481, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.