Neuromodulation in pediatrics

Current opinion on the working mechanisms of neuromodulation in the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Neuromodulation is a successful treatment for patients with refractory lower urinary tract dysfunction. In the recent years, more applications of various types and ways have been developed and put into clinical practice. It is important, therefore, for urologists to know the existing theories on the working mechanisms that explain the effect. Although much research has been devoted to this subject for the past 35 years, the working mechanism is still unknown. This review presents an overview of the different theories and research into the physiological background of neuromodulation during the past 3 decades with emphasis on recent developments.

RECENT FINDINGS

Specific receptors in the spinal cord have been identified, which are involved in the working mechanism of neuromodulation. The maximal effect of neuromodulation is not directly reached, indicating that neuromodulation induces learning changes (i.e. neural plasticity). The carry-over effect could be caused by negative modulation of excitatory synapses in the central micturition reflex pathway.

SUMMARY

Neuromodulation in the treatment of stress incontinence probably induces physiological changes in the sphincter muscles and pelvic floor. In the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome, nonobstructive voiding dysfunction and chronic pelvic pain, the mechanism of action seems to be more complicated. Most likely, it is a combination of the different suggested modes of action, involving the neuroaxis at different levels.

Use of sympathetic alpha antagonists in the management of pediatric urologic disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To update the physician regarding the use of alpha-adrenergic antagonists in the management of various pediatric urologic problems.

RECENT FINDINGS

The use of alpha-adrenergic antagonist for the treatment of pediatric urologic disorders has expanded greatly over the past decade. This review summarizes the current use of these medications in the treatment of pediatric voiding dysfunction, neurogenic bladder, chronic lower urinary tract symptomatology, idiopathic urethritis, and the passage of ureteral calculi.

SUMMARY

Currently alpha antagonist therapy although not useful in the primary treatment of voiding dysfunction is equivalent in potency to biofeedback therapy for the treatment of recalcitrant voiding dysfunction. In the management of neurogenic bladder and chronic lower urinary tract symptomatology, alpha antagonists working alone or in conjunction with anticholinergic medications will improve clinical symptoms, increase bladder compliance, and decrease detrusor instability. In addition, alpha antagonists may decrease the intensity and duration of symptoms in patients with idiopathic urethritis. Compared with placebo, alpha-adrenergic antagonists will also aid significantly in the spontaneous passage of distal ureteral calculi, thereby reducing the need for surgical intervention and analgesia. The findings noted above significantly expand the clinical usefulness of alpha antagonist therapy within the field of pediatric urology.