Ten years of experience with intravesical and intrasphincteric onabotulinumtoxinA in children

Intravesical Botulin Toxin-A Injections for Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction in Children: Summary Update on Last 10 Years of Research

Neurogenic bladder dysfunction (NB) represents a challenge in pediatric urology. Intravesical botulin toxin-A (BTX-A) bladder injection is part of the armamentarium for the treatment of this condition, usually after failed first-line medical strategies and before the escalation to more invasive options such as neuromodulation or augmented cystoplasty in severe cases. However, there is still a lack of consensus about the appropriate treatment modality for the pediatric population. A review of the last 10 years' research was performed on the PubMed database by two authors. Articles doubly selected and meeting the inclusion criteria were collected and analyzed for their study type, demographics, neurological disease(s) at diagnosis, BTX-A treatment modality and duration, previous treatment, clinical and urodynamic parameters, adverse events, outcomes, and follow-ups. A total of 285 studies were initially selected, 16 of which matched the inclusion criteria. A cohort of 630 patients was treated with BTX-A at a median age of 9.7 years, 40% of which had a diagnosis of myelomeningocele. The results of the selected publications show the overall efficacy and safety of BTX-A injections in children and confirmed BTX-A as a valuable strategy for NB treatment in pediatric population. Nevertheless, up to now, the literature on this topic offers scarce uniformity among the published series and poor protocol standardization.

Long-Term Adherence to Onabotulinum Toxin-A Intradetrusor Injections for Neurogenic Dysfunction in Children-A Retrospective Single-Center Evaluation

Onabotulinum Toxin-A (BTX-A) is a second-line treatment for neurogenic bladder (NB). It requires repeated injections over time, which is a possible limit for long-term adherence, especially in children, as general anesthesia is required. Almost 50% of adults discontinue therapy; few data on pediatric patients are present. The aim of this study is to share our long-term experience of BTX-A adherence in children. This study is a retrospective review of 230 refractory NB patients treated with BTX-A. The inclusion criteria were ≥3 treatments and the first injection performed ≥10 years before the study endpoint. Fifty-four patients were included. Mean follow-up was 10.2 years; mean treatment number was 6.4 for each patient. During follow-up, 7% did not need BTX-A anymore; 76% discontinued therapy, with a prevalence of acquired NB (64% acquired vs. 34% congenital; p = 0.03); sex-based and urodynamic findings did not influence the discontinuation rate (p = 0.6, p = 0.2, respectively). Considering those who withdrew from the therapy, 43% were lost to follow-up/died after a mean of 7.5 years (although 33% still experienced clinical efficacy); 33% changed therapy after a mean of 5.8 years (with reduced efficacy in 22%, persistent efficacy in 11%). BTX-A is a safe and effective therapy for pediatric patients. The treatment abandonment rate is higher for children than for adults; no specific reasons were highlighted. It is necessary to evaluate any age-specific factors to explain these data.

OnabotulinumtoxinA is now an important tool for managing pediatric neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction

Initial urologic management of pediatric neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) includes clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) regimen and use of anticholinergic or beta3 agonist medications. Historically, NLUTD that did not respond to these initial management strategies received open surgical procedures such as augmentation cystoplasty (AC) to increase bladder capacity and create a lower-pressure reservoir. Since its first reported use in 2002, intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) injections has developed an emerging role in management of pediatric NLUTD, culminating in its recent FDA-approval in 2021. In this review, the current evidence regarding the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of BTX-A use in pediatric NLUTD will be summarized. Additionally, we will attempt to define the current role of BTX-A in the management of patients with NLUTD, discuss limitations to the current body of literature, and suggest future avenues of study.

The effect of botulinum toxin A in children with non-neurogenic therapy-refractory dysfunctional voiding - A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Dysfunctional voiding (DV) is a habitual voiding disorder caused by involuntary contraction or non-relaxation of the external urethral sphincter (EUS) during voiding. This contraction causes high post-void residuals (PVR), urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Various treatments for DV are available, but some children do not respond. Intersphincteric botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A) may be a possible treatment for therapy-refractory children with DV.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the effects and safety of intersphincteric BTX-A as a treatment for therapy-refractory DV in children.

METHODS

A systematic search in Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases was performed. Studies reporting on the usage of intersphincteric BTX-A as a treatment for DV in children were included. Data on PVR, maximum flow rate (Qmax), repeat injections and complications were extracted.

RESULTS

From a total of 277 articles, five cohort studies were identified, reporting on 78 children with DV of whom 53 were female (68 %) and 25 were male (32 %). Sample sizes ranged from ten to twenty patients. Mean or median age at the time of intervention ranged from 8 to 10.5 years. Meta-analysis could not be performed due to lack of data. The narrative synthesis approach was therefore used to summarize the results. All studies showed significant decrease in PVR after BTX-A injection. Three studies showed a 33-69 % improvement on incontinence after BTX-A injection. Less UTIs were reported after treatment. A temporary increase in incontinence, UTIs and transitory numbness to the gluteus muscle were reported as side-effects.

CONCLUSIONS

BTX-A could be a safe and effective treatment option for therapy-refractory DV in children by reducing PVR, UTIs and incontinence. Hereby, the synergistic effect of BTX-A and urotherapy should be emphasized in future management. Furthermore, this study identified gaps in current knowledge that are of interest for future research.

Treatment modalities for paediatric functional daytime lower urinary tract disorders: an updated review

Paediatric functional bladder disorders especially those causing daytime symptoms are a common cause of significant psychosocial and/or physical morbidity and impaired quality of life. Despite the availability of many therapeutic modalities, a significant number of children appear to be refractory to treatment and continue to have symptoms. In this review, we aim to evaluate the current evidence in the use of existing and novel therapeutic options for the management of daytime lower urinary tract disorders in children. We also aim to highlight the controversies around the terminology and diagnosis of paediatric lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) and specific conditions. The article will then provide a reasonable critique of the existing and emerging treatment modalities in functional daytime LUTD in children including their mode of action, efficacy, indications, and recent advances. These include standard urotherapy, specific urotherapy comprised of biofeedback, alarm therapy and electrical neural stimulation and pharmacotherapy involving selective and non-selective anticholinergics, ß3 adrenergic agonists, alpha blockers and botulinum toxin. A better understanding of this common clinical problem may help clinicians achieve better profiling of these children's diagnoses to further enable specific, targeted treatment.

Evaluating the utility of routine urine culture and antibiotic treatment in children with neurogenic bladder undergoing intradetrusor OnabotulinumtoxinA injection

INTRODUCTION

OnabotulinumtoxinA is used as treatment for refractory idiopathic and neurogenic detrusor overactivity in children. Many patients perform intermittent self-catheterization and therefore have higher rates of asymptomatic bacteriuria, which may increase their risk of symptomatic urinary tract infection (UTI) following treatment. Multiple injections are often needed due to the short-term efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment, which may also increase the risk of UTI.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to evaluate whether a sterile urinary tract is necessary to decrease the risk of postoperative UTI in pediatric patients treated with onabotulinumtoxinA.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective review of patients undergoing intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injection from 2014 to 2021 was performed. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, antibiotic treatment and culture results were collected. A positive urine culture was defined as ≥ 103 CFU/ml of uropathogenic bacteria. Our primary outcome was symptomatic UTI within 14 days of the procedure.

RESULTS

103 patients underwent 158 treatments with onabotulinumtoxinA. The incidence of postoperative UTI was 3.2%. The incidence of symptomatic postoperative UTI in patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria compared to those with sterile urine was not significantly different (3.8% vs 0%, p = 0.57). Obtaining a preoperative urinalysis or urine culture did not affect the incidence of postoperative UTI (p = 0.54). The number needed to treat with antibiotics to prevent one postoperative UTI was 27. The incidence of postoperative UTI was highest in patients with low-risk bladders (p = 0.043). Prior history of multi-drug resistant UTI was a risk factor for postoperative UTI (p = 0.048).

DISCUSSION

For children undergoing onabotulinumtoxinA injection, there are no evidence-based recommendations regarding antibiotic prophylaxis and the need to screen for and treat asymptomatic bacteruria prior to treatment. Our study addresses this important clinical question, and shows no difference in the rate of postoperative UTI between patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria and those with sterile urine. Patients with a history of multi-drug resistant UTI are at increased risk of symptomatic postoperative UTI and may benefit from preoperative urine testing and treatment. Limitations of our retrospective study include its small sample size in the face of such a low incidence of our primary outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of UTI following onabotulinumtoxinA injection in children is low. The presence of sterile urine at the time of surgery does not significantly decrease the risk of postoperative UTI. Routine treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria prior to surgery results in a large number of patients receiving unnecessary antibiotics. As a result, we recommend against preoperative urine testing for most asymptomatic patients.

An evaluation of onobotulinumtoxinA as a therapeutic option for pediatric neurogenic detrusor overactivity

INTRODUCTION

Neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) results in involuntary detrusor contractions during bladder filling or storage risking transmission of pressure to the upper urinary tracts and/or significant incontinence. The goals of bladder management in children with NDO prioritize the preservation of renal function, prevention of UTIs, and optimizing quality of life. First-line measures include intermittent catheterization and anticholinergic medication. However, when conservative measures fail, surgical intervention may be indicated. Historically, the next step was major reconstructive surgery to create a low-pressure urinary reservoir. The introduction of intravesical botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT/A) for use in children in 2002 offered a less invasive option for management. However, its exact role is still evolving.

AREAS COVERED

This article summarizes the mechanism of action of BoNT/A for management of NDO and evaluates the current literature defining common practice and clinical efficacy in children with NDO. The findings of the recently completed phase III trial for intravesical onabotulinumtoxinA in children are discussed in detail.

EXPERT OPINION

As the first BoNT/A approved for use in children with NDO, onabotulinumtoxinA appears to be a safe and less invasive alternative to major reconstructive surgery. However, data defining appropriate patient selection and its role as a long-term treatment option continue to develop.

Onabotulinum Toxin A Intradetrusor Injections in Children with Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: Long-Term Histological Effects on the Bladder Wall

BACKGROUND

In the last twenty-five years, Onabotulinum Toxin A (BTX-A) has gained increasing popularity for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) treatment. To maintain its efficacy, repeated BTX-A intradetrusor injections are required over time, with unknown effects on the bladder wall in children. The aim of this paper is to report long-term effects on the bladder wall in children treated with BTX-A.

METHODS

Children with NLUTD not responsive to anticholinergics were treated with BTX-A, according to our protocol, with bladder wall control using endoscopic cold-cup biopsy. Specimens were evaluated considering edema, chronic inflammation, and fibrosis.

RESULTS

Of the 230 patients treated from 1997 to 2022, we considered only specimens obtained in patients who had received ≥5 treatments (36 children), considered as the threshold to evaluate clinical effectiveness on long-term treatment with BTX-A. Most of them had congenital NLUTD (25 patients) and detrusor overactivity (27 patients). In all, increased edema and chronic inflammation with reduced fibrosis over time was reported; these data were not statistically significant. No difference was observed between patients with congenital and acquired diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeated intradetrusor BTX-A injections are not related to significant histological alterations in children, similarly with adults, and repeated injections could be considered safe.

Updates of Overactive Bladder in Pediatrics

Overactive bladder (OAB) is clinically defined as urinary urgency with or without urinary incontinence. It is associated with daytime frequency or constipation and has a prevalence of approximately 5%-12% among 5- to 10-year-olds. The appropriate functional exchange between the pontine micturition center, periaqueductal gray matter, and prefrontal cortex is important for proper micturition control. Several studies on pediatric cases observed a link between OAB and neuropsychiatric problems, such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit, and treatment of these comorbidities improved patient symptoms. In this review, we present the pathophysiology of OAB, its associated conditions, and aspects related to updates in OAB treatment, and we propose a step-by-step treatment approach following this sequence: behavioral therapy, medical treatment, and invasive treatment. Although anticholinergic drugs are the mainstay of OAB medical treatment, beta-3 agonists and alpha-blockers are now recommended as a result of significant advancements in pharmacologic treatment in the last 10 years. Electrical stimulation techniques and botulinum toxin are also effective and can be used, especially in conventional treatment-refractory cases.

Long-Term Follow-Up of Lower Urinary Tract Outcome in Children with Dysfunctional Voiding

Objective: To investigate the long-term clinical and urodynamic outcomes of a small cohort of children who received short-term urotherapy for confirmed dysfunctional voiding (DV) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Materials and Methods: This study included 26 children with confirmed LUTS and DV via video urodynamic study (VUDS) and received standard urological therapy, pelvic floor muscle training, or surgical intervention in childhood. Their current lower urinary tract conditions were assessed by chart review and direct and telephone interviews. Charts of 14 patients who underwent follow-up VUDS were reviewed to investigate their bladder and voiding dysfunction or follow-up on previous treatment results. The satisfaction of lower urinary tract status was assessed using the global response assessment (GRA) scale. Results: At initial enrolment, the mean age was 9.54 ± 3.88 years, and urological treatment was performed during the first 1−5 years thereafter. Most patients were not regularly followed in the urology clinic. Among the 14 children available for follow-up, a GRA score of 3 was reported by 10 (71.4%) after a mean follow-up period of 10.3 ± 6.74 (range, 2−20) years, indicating satisfactory bladder and voiding conditions. Four children with less favorable outcomes (GRA score of <3) had significantly more post-void residual urine volume at baseline, and 75% of these patients had central nervous system diseases. Daytime incontinence and enuresis rates were significantly decreased at follow-up compared with the baseline. Significantly increased bladder capacity and sensation and significantly decreased voiding detrusor pressure were found on follow-up VUDS. Conclusions: Children with DV who received standard urotherapy upon diagnosis exhibited improved LUTS at a 10-year follow-up. Of the 14 children available for follow-up, 10 (71.4%) reported satisfactory bladder and voiding status without further medication or urotherapy, with significantly decreased voiding detrusor pressure.

Experiencia con el uso de toxina botulínica en niños con vejiga hiperactiva neurogénica: Una serie de casos

Objetivo Describir la experiencia con la administración de inyección de toxina botulínica en niños con vejiga hiperactiva neurogénica refractaria a manejo de primera línea.

Materiales y Métodos Estudio observacional descriptivo (serie de casos) que incluyó a 14 niños con diagnóstico de vejiga hiperactiva neurogénica refractarios a tratamiento de primera línea sometidos a administración intravesical de toxina botulínica entre 2015 y 2021; se realizó el seguimiento teniendo en cuenta las variables clínicas, con evaluación de la respuesta y de los eventos adversos. Se reportaron frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes para las variables cualitativas; para las variables cuantitativas, se reportaron medidas de tendencia central y dispersión.

Resultados Se incluyeron 6 niños y 8 niñas, con una media de edad 10,1 (desviación estándar [DE]: ± 4,4) años. Todos los pacientes fueron tratados previamente con anticolinérgico y cateterismos limpios intermitentes, con una media de uso de 2,8 (DE: ± 1.0) pañales al día; 11 (78,5%) pacientes tenían antecedente de infección urinaria, 13 (92,8%), estreñimiento, y 2 (15,3%), incontinencia fecal. En la ecografía, 7 (50,0%) pacientes presentaban engrosamiento de las paredes vesicales, y 6 (42,8%), hidronefrosis. Tras el procedimiento, 1 paciente presentó infección urinaria como complicación, 6 presentaron una respuesta completa, 7, respuesta parcial, y 1 paciente no obtuvo respuesta con la primera inyección, con un tiempo promedio efectivo de la terapia 8 (DE: ± 6,3) meses. Una segunda inyección fue necesaria en 6 (42.8%) pacientes, y, de estos, 3 (50%) requirieron una tercera inyección.

Conclusión La inyección de toxina botulinica intravesical como terapia de segunda línea de manejo para vejiga hiperactiva neurogénica tiene buenos resultados, con bajas tasas de complicaciones.

Clinical Application of Botulinum Neurotoxin in Lower-Urinary-Tract Diseases and Dysfunctions: Where Are We Now and What More Can We Do?

Botulinum toxin A (Botox) had been considered a promising drug that has an effect on functional disorders of the lower urinary tract. Because Botox exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, Botox injection into the bladder can decrease detrusor contractility, reduce bladder hypersensitivity, and eliminate painful sensations. Injecting Botox into the bladder outlet can relax the hyperactivity of the bladder neck, and of the urethral smooth and striated muscles. Based on these therapeutic effects, Botox has been widely applied to treat lower-urinary-tract dysfunctions (LUTDs) such as overactive bladder and neurogenic detrusor overactivity. However, this treatment has not been licensed for use in other LUTDs such as interstitial cystitis, voiding dysfunction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia in men, and dysfunctional voiding in women. Botox has also not been approved for the treatment of children with overactive bladder and dysfunctional voiding; in patients with spinal cord injuries with detrusor sphincter dyssynergia and autonomic dysreflexia; or for poorly relaxed external sphincter in non-neurogenic patients. This article reviews the current knowledge regarding Botox treatment for LUTDs and discusses the potential clinical applications of Botox, as well as work that can be conducted in the future.

Defining Urinary Tract Infections in Children With Spina Bifida: A Systematic Review

CONTEXT

Children with spina bifida are at high risk for urinary tract infections (UTI). However, there is no standardized definition of UTI in this population, leading to variability in both clinical management and research. This was highlighted in the 2013 systematic review on the same topic.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the frequency with which researchers are defining UTI in their studies of children with spina bifida and to determine what parameters are used.

DATA SOURCES

We searched Medline and Scopus databases for articles that included pediatric patients with spina bifida and used UTI as an outcome.

STUDY SELECTION

Exclusion criteria included publication before October 1, 2012, non-English language, and nonprimary research articles.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two independent reviewers each extracted data.

RESULTS

A total of 39 studies were included; 74% of these analyzed included an explicit definition of UTI. The most commonly used definition included a combination of symptoms and culture results (34.5%), whereas 31% used a combination of symptoms, culture results, and urinalysis data. Only 3.4% of articles used a urine culture alone to define UTI.

CONCLUSIONS

More articles that focus on children with spina bifida included a definition of UTI. However, significant variability persists in the definition of UTI in this patient population.

Lower urinary tract dysfunction in pediatrics progress to kidney disease in adolescents: Toward precision medicine in treatment

Newborn infants who had neurogenic bladder dysfunction (NBD) have a normal upper urinary tract at birth. Most of them will develop deterioration of renal function and chronic kidney disease if they do not receive proper management. Children with NBD can develop renal damage at adolescence or earlier, which is due to high detrusor pressures resulted from poor compliance of the bladder, detrusor overactivity against a closed sphincter or detrusor sphincter dyssynergia. To preserve renal function and prevent deterioration of the kidneys, NBD must be treated immediately after being diagnosed. Over the last few years there was great progress in the treatment of children with the NBD. We searched PubMed and the Cochrane Library for peer-reviewed articles published in any language up to March 10, 2021, using the search term “neurogenic bladder children.” Our search excluded diagnosis, pathophysiology, surgical treatment of spinal cord injury and spina bifida. The research identified the effectiveness of treatment regimens targeting prevention of chronic kidney disease and the indications of kidney transplantation. The results of the research showed that NBD in children should be diagnosed early in life, and the child should receive the proper management. The literature search concluded that the management of NBD in children would be personalized for every case and could be changed according to response to treatment, side effects, child compliance, availability of treatment modality and costs of treatment. The objectives of the study are to present the different options of management of NBD in children and the selection of the proper method in a personalized manner.

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.

Assessment of Needs in Children Suffering From Refractory Non-neurogenic Urinary and Fecal Incontinence and Their Caregivers' Needs and Attitudes Toward Alternative Therapies (SNM, TENS)

Background: Non-neurogenic urinary and fecal incontinence (UI, FI) affects approximately 6% of North American children with 1% of cases becoming refractory (nonresponsive to standard therapies). Incontinence has major potential long-term physiological and psychological implications for patients and their families. While Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) and Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation (TENS) are alternative therapies available for the treatment of refractory UI/FI, these are not approved for use in children in Canada. The present study assessed participants' perception of current treatments, incontinence burden, and attitudes toward novel therapies in a single pediatric institution. Methods: Multiple validated questionnaires including Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS), Bristol Stool Chart (BSC), Pediatric Incontinence measurement (PinQ), and Time-Driven Activity Based Costing were used to perform a needs assessment for patients with non-neurogenic refractory incontinence, and to determine patients' and caregivers' attitudes toward alternative therapies. Results: 75% of patients and 89% of caregivers reported a moderate to severe impact of incontinence on QoL with diminished social interactions among the primary concerns. Caregivers were frustrated with current treatments and were open to trying alternative therapies (SNM and TENS), which, at least in the case of SNM, seems to be less expensive, possibly less burdensome and more effective than current surgical options. Conclusion: Pediatric refractory UI/FI has a large impact on patients' and caregivers' QoL and alternative therapies with the potential to improve QoL of patients and caregivers should be further investigated as a substitute for surgery.

Botulinum toxin therapy in children with neurogenic detrusor overactivity

Special birth defects and neurological diseases can cause neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). First-line pharmacotherapy is the antimuscarinic therapy, which can be limited by side effects or non-effectiveness. Therefore, pharmacological treatment of NDO in children includes off-label use of intravesical injections of botulinum toxin type A (BTA). In this review article, various clinical studies in which BTA was used for the treatment of NDO of different etiologies in children are discussed, including studies about children with acquired NDO. An electronic literature search was performed using PubMed, and studies published prior to March 2019 are reported. BTA injections are a clinically and urodynamically effective and safe treatment for NDO in children. The treatment is also important in protecting the upper urinary tract from damage and improving concomitant bowel dysfunctions. Fibrotic, acontractile bladders with poor bladder compliance and/or a very small initial bladder capacity and/or the presence of an open bladder neck all contributed to poor responses. A combined injection into the detrusor and external urethral sphincter may improve the clinical outcome in the detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia. New application methods are promising, such as the electromotive drug administration, to avoid general anesthesia. Furthermore, the minimal clinically effective dosage, inclusion criteria, and prognostic factors remain to be established.

Pharmacologic therapies for the management of non-neurogenic urinary incontinence in children

Introduction: Non-neurogenic urinary incontinence in children is a common condition that affects the quality of life for both patients and parents. Symptoms may occur in the daytime, nighttime, or both and may be the result of structural and functional anomalies. Evaluation and management of associated co-morbidities, such as constipation is critical to management. Behavioral therapy is a fist line therapy in most cases of non-neurogenic urinary incontinence and pharmacologic therapy a second-line therapy.Areas covered: In this review, the authors cover the pharmacologic agents, FDA approved and commonly used non-FDA approved, available for the treatment of four non-structural etiologies of non-neurogenic urinary incontinence in children. These include nocturnal enuresis, overactive bladder, giggle incontinence, and dysfunctional voiding.Expert opinion: Non-neurogenic causes of urinary incontinence in children represent a complicated medical condition that requires both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic management. Limited FDA-approved therapies as well as suboptimal results with approved therapies due to a lack in the understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and patient selection may lead to the use of alternative non-FDA approved therapies.

Neuropathic Bladder and Augmentation Cystoplasty

Surgical indications for individuals with neuropathic bladder include unsafe urinary storage pressures, progressive upper tract deterioration, and continued urinary incontinence that is recalcitrant to oral pharmacologic or intradetrusor injection therapy and intermittent catheterization. Bladder augmentation is currently the gold standard surgical procedure used to increase bladder capacity and reduce storage pressures but has significant long-term risks. The medical and surgical management of neuropathic bladder, as well as long-term consequences of bladder augmentation, are reviewed.

Bladder Bowel Dysfunction

Bladder bowel dysfunction (BBD) describes a spectrum of lower urinary tract symptoms associated with bowel complaints. The true incidence of BBD is unknown; however, BBD symptoms represent approximately 40% of pediatric urology consultations. Given the close interaction between the bladder and bowel due to their common innervation as well as associated pelvic floor muscles, patients often present with bowel complaints as well. Increasing awareness of BBD over the past 30 years has led to better diagnostic criteria and treatment methods. In this article, we review the clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, pathophysiology, and treatment options for children with BBD.

Applicability of botulinum toxin type A in paediatric neurogenic bladder management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview about the applicability of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) in paediatric neurogenic bladder based on the recently published literature combined with hypothetical notes and future perspectives.

RECENT FINDINGS

The indications, clinical outcomes, urodynamic outcome parameters and cost-effectiveness are presented from recent publications. Also, alternative routes of application of BTX-A in the bladder are discussed as well as the influence of BTX-A on conservative and invasive treatment.

SUMMARY

Intradetrusor BTX-A injections for neurogenic bladder dysfunction are effective in resolving both urinary incontinence and improving urodynamic parameters in most children with a sustained response at repeated injections. In low-compliance bladders, however, if no response is seen after initial BTX-A injection, repeated injections seem to be unnecessary. Because general anaesthesia is mandatory for BTX-A injections in children, alternative routes of application have been investigated such as intravesical installation, electromotive drug application and liposomal drug delivery; however, no definite results have been found in a paediatric clinical setting.

Long-term outcomes of cutaneous vesicostomy in patients with neuropathic bladder caused by spina bifida

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcomes of patients who underwent cutaneous vesicostomy for management of neuropathic bladder secondary to spina bifida. We hypothesize that vesicostomy, in select patients, is beneficial to prevent upper urinary tract deterioration (UTD), reduce febrile urinary tract infections (UTIs), and preserve renal function.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective chart review on patients with spina bifida who underwent cutaneous vesicostomy at our institution between 2000 and 2016. Demographic information, indication for vesicostomy, pre and postoperative laboratory/radiologic studies, incidence of febrile UTIs, and urodynamic findings were abstracted.

RESULTS

A total of 14 patients (eight females and six males) were identified. The indication for vesicostomy was UTD in four, recurrent febrile UTIs in five, parental request in two, both UTD and recurrent febrile UTIs in two, and both UTI and parental request in one patient. Seven patients had a median of three (range one to five) febrile UTI prior to surgery for cutaneous vesicostomy. Median creatinine level before surgery was 0.26 mg/dL (range 0.16-0.97). Either unilateral or bilateral ≥SFU Grade 2 hydronephrosis was present in six patients. Median age at vesicostomy creation was 26.5 months (range 4-96). Mean functional bladder capacity assessed during preoperative urodynamic studies was 107 mL (range 20-279), and detrusor sphincter dysynergia was present in all patients. High-grade vesicoureteral reflux (grade ≥3) was present in three patients, all with UTD. Mean follow-up after vesicostomy was 62.4 ± 39.3 months. After vesicostomy, only two of the seven patients with history of febrile UTIs experienced an additional febrile UTI. The median serum creatinine level was 0.36 mg/dL (range 0.2-0.58) at last follow-up. Moreover, 11/14 patients had no hydronephrosis and just two patients had unilateral SFU grade 1 hydronephrosis (Table).

DISCUSSION

Worsening UTD, recurrent febrile UTIs, and high-pressure bladder despite maximal medical therapy are several reasons to consider more aggressive management of neuropathic bladders. In young patients, vesicostomy is able to protect the upper urinary tract, decrease rates of febrile UTI, and delay the need for bladder augmentation.

CONCLUSION

Vesicostomy is a safe method for temporary diversion of the lower urinary tract in patients with spina bifida who are refractory to conservative and minimally invasive treatments.

Clinical and Urodynamic Results of Repeated Intradetrusor Onabotulinum Toxin A Injections in Refractory Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity: Up to 5 Injections in a Cohort of Children With Myelodysplasia

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy and safety of repeated intradetrusor onabotulinum toxin A (onaBoNT-A) injections in children with neurogenic detrusor overactivity due to myelodysplasia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 19 children (4 boys and 15 girls) with a mean age of 10.3 ± 3.1 years old, who had received at least 2 injections of 10 U/kg onaBoNT-A for the treatment of urinary incontinence resistant to anticholinergic treatment and clean intermittent catheterization in our clinic, between 2010 and 2015. Controlled urodynamic studies were performed at the baseline and 3 months after each injection.

RESULTS

Eight of the children received 3 injections, 5 children had 4 injections, and 2 children had 5 injections. From the baseline to the fifth injection, the detrusor compliance (1.3, 4.5, 10, 20.7, 18.8, and 16.6 mL/cm H₂O), the maximum bladder capacity (82.0, 157.0, 191.0, 272.0, 299.0, and 210.5 mL), and the maximum detrusor pressure (55.0, 33.0, 22.0, 12.5, 16.0, and 12.5 cm H₂O) were assessed. The findings significantly improved following the first, second, and third injections, when compared with the previous bladder dynamics (P <.05), but the differences with the fourth were not statistically significant (P >.05). The continence periods were similar under clean intermittent catheterization after all of the injections (P <.05), and no severe side effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

Repeated onaBoNT-A injections are a safe treatment modality and can be offered as an effective alternative choice, instead of more invasive surgery, in children with neurogenic detrusor overactivity due to myelodysplasia.

Overactive bladder in children

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a highly prevalent disorder in the pediatric population. This condition is especially troublesome for pediatric patients and their families when associated with incontinence, since it negatively affects self-esteem and impairs children's development. From the patient's perspective, urgency and urge incontinence can have a significant impact, negatively affecting their quality of life. For a therapy to have true benefit, changes must not only be statistically significant, but must also be perceived as meaningful by the patient. A stepwise approach is favoured to treat this pathology, starting with behavioural therapy, followed by medical management, and eventually more invasive procedures. Antimuscarinic agents are the mainstay of medical treatment for OAB. Oxybutynin is the most commonly used antimuscarinic in the pediatric population. However, some patients have a suboptimal response to antimuscarinics and many experience bothersome side effects, which have been documented with all antimuscarinics to a significantly higher degree than placebo. Although there have been reports about the use of tolterodine, fesoterodine, trospium, propiverine, and solifenacin in children, to date, only oxybutynin has been officially approved for pediatric use by medical authorities in North America. This review will address alternative treatment options for pediatric patients presenting with OAB, from conservative measures to more invasive therapies.

The Management of the Pediatric Neurogenic Bladder

Neurogenic bladder is a heterogeneous entity that may result from a variety of conditions affecting the central or peripheral nervous systems. Regardless of etiology, the overall goals of management are primarily twofold. As a neurogenic bladder may affect the ability to store urine safely and to empty the bladder efficiently, early management is focused on optimization of bladder storage function to prevent irreversible injury to either the upper or lower urinary tracts. In older children, this goal is added to the challenge of maximizing quality of life through achievement of urinary continence and independence in bladder management that continues into the transition to adulthood. In this review, we seek to bring the reader up-to-date regarding management of the pediatric neurogenic bladder with a focus on literature published in the past year. We discuss key contributions related to fetal intervention for myelomeningocele, monitoring and medical management of the neurogenic bladder and prediction of postoperative outcomes. Put together, these studies highlight the continued need for further research to improve evidence-based medical and surgical decision-making strategies for children affected by neurogenic bladder.