Urodynamic biofeedback: a new approach to treat vesical sphincter dyssynergia

Home pelvic floor exercises in children with non-neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Is fitball an alternative to classic exercises?

INTRODUCTION

Biofeedback with home pelvic floor exercises were recommended as non-pharmacologic treatment for non-neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) in children. Fitball is recommended to improve all-over flexibility, balance, and coordination, especially for pelvic floor. Aim of the study was to investigate efficacy of standard home pelvic floor exercises versus exercises using fitball.

METHODS

From April 2021 to February 2022 to all children arrived in our clinic with non-neurogenic LUTS nonresponder at urotherapy, our pelvic floor rehabilitative program was proposed. During the rehabilitation children performed: standard urotherapy, pelvic floor animated biofeedback therapy and pelvic floor exercises in a standard way and using a fitball. After the first session, patients received prescription to repeat at home the same exercises performed at hospital. Children who chose classic exercises were enrolled in group A and they who chose fitball in group B. Continence rate, pelvic floor muscles activity, adherence and satisfaction were evaluated by means of bladder diary, external pubococcygeus test and Likert-type psychometric scale (from 1 = very unsatisfied to 5 = very satisfied) respectively.

RESULTS

Twenty-six children affected by LUTS were enrolled: 13 in group A and 13 in B. At 4th control urinary incontinence was reduced by 72,5% in A and 71.4% in B. Pubococcygeus test increased in both groups. Adherence at home was 92% in group A and 62% in group B. Satisfaction with the treatment (4 or 5 points) was 95% in both groups. Four patients of group A and all of group B decided to maintain home exercises including fitball.

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary study shows that efficacy of home exercises, with or without fitball, is comparable. Satisfaction with fitball is high, regardless results obtained, because parents and children have learned a new, interesting and stimulating way to manage urinary problems. The opportunity to perform these exercises using fitball, it's an important finding for pediatric population.

Maintenance biofeedback therapy for dysfunctional voiding: Does every child need it?

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study is to analyze the long-term clinical outcomes in children who were treated with biofeedback therapy (BF) for dysfunctional voiding (DV) and to determine the need for maintenance of BF due to clinical relapse.

METHODS

Files of children with DV who underwent BF between 2013 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with neurological or anatomical problems were excluded. A total of 64 patients (52 girls, 12 boys) with a mean age of 8.89 ± 2.48 years who completed the initial BF sessions were included in the study. The demographic and clinical data, dysfunctional voiding symptom scores (DVSS), and uroflowmetry parameters were recorded before and after the initial BF sessions. Clinical success was regarded as the cessation of electromyography activity as well as concurrent resolution of lower urinary tract symptoms and improvement in uroflowmetry parameters. After the initial BF sessions, children who had initial success showed DV relapse at any time during follow-up received the maintenance BF sessions. Therefore, the patients with successful initial BF were divided into two groups: the group that needed maintenance BF, and the group which required no maintenance BF.

RESULTS

Clinical success was achieved in 48 (75.0%) of 64 children following a median of 6 sessions (range 2-8). At the follow-up, 10 (20.8%) out of 48 patients showed symptom relapse at a median of 8 months (range 2-24 months). After a median of 3.5 maintenance BF sessions (range 1-6), clinical success was observed in all patients. Both groups showed a significant DVSS decrease after initial BF, however, those who needed maintenance had significantly higher DVSS (6.80 ± 2.53 vs. 3.61 ± 1.12, p < 0.001). At admission, DVSS <17.5 (odds ratio [OR]: 4.31, p = 0.025) and post-voiding residual volume as a percentage of estimated bladder capacity for age <28.9 (OR: 5.00, p = 0.009) were found as the predictive factors for initial BF success. The need for maintenance BF was 2.56-fold higher with a DVSS above 5.5 after initial BF sessions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that despite a clinical success rate of 75% after the initial BF, relapse can be seen within 2 years in approximately 20% of the patients. Nevertheless, maintenance of BF may provide clinical success in all patients. Relatively higher DVSS after initial BF can be used as a predictor of the need for maintenance BF.

The effect of duration between sessions on biofeedback treatment in children with dysfunctional voiding

OBJECTIVE

Biofeedback is an effective treatment in children with standard urotherapy-resistant dysfunctional voiding (DV). However, the duration of the session intervals is not standardized. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of daily and weekly sessions of biofeedback treatments.

METHODS

The data of children who received biofeedback due to DV between March 2018 and May 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. The children were divided into two groups, one with daily and the other with weekly sessions. The voiding patterns in uroflowmetry (UF), maximum flow rate (Qmax), electromyography activity, postvoid residual volume (PVR), the ratio of voided volume to expected bladder capacity (EBC) (%), and Dysfunctional Voiding and Incontinence Scoring System (DVISS) were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 45 children (39 girls [86.6%] and 6 boys [13.3%]) were included in the study. The daily group consisted of 27 (60%) children and the weekly group of 18 (40%). Qmax, PVR, number of abnormal UF patterns, voiding volume/EBC, and DVISS scores were similar between the two groups before treatment. Voiding parameters improved statistically significantly in both groups following biofeedback, but there was no difference between the two groups. A statistical difference was found between the results of DVISS after treatment (P = .03).

CONCLUSION

Both types of biofeedback treatment (daily and weekly) are effective methods that improve voiding parameters and DVISS values in children with DV. Therefore, the duration between sessions can be determined according to the suitability of the patient and the biofeedback unit.

Traditional Biofeedback vs. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy-Is One Clearly Superior?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a worldwide accepted therapy that has been exclusively used to manage many pelvic floor disorders in adults and children. The aim of this review is to suggest to clinicians an updated understanding of this therapeutic approach in management of children with non-neuropathic voiding dysfunction.

RECENT FINDINGS

Today, pelvic floor muscle training through biofeedback is widely used as a part of a voiding retraining program aiming to help children with voiding dysfunction which is caused by pelvic floor overactivity. Biofeedback on its own, without a pelvic floor training component, is not an effective treatment. Biofeedback is an adjunct to the pelvic floor training. In the current review, we develop the role of pelvic floor physical therapy in management of children with non-neuropathic voiding dysfunction and compare it with biofeedback therapy alone.

Animated versus non-animated biofeedback therapy for dysfunctional voiding treatment: Does it change the outcome?

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of animated vs. non-animated biofeedback therapy in the treatment of dysfunctional voiding (DV) in the pediatric age group.

METHODS

In this study, children with DV were randomly assigned for animated and non-animated biofeedback therapy. Age, voiding dysfunction symptom scores (VDSS), urinary ultrasound and uroflowmetry parameters such as electromyography (EMG) activity, voided volumes, post voiding residual urine volume (PVR) and maximum flow rate (Qmax) were evaluated. At the end of treatment, clinical success was regarded as the cessation of EMG activity during voiding, resolution of symptoms (reduction in VDSS, frequency, intermittency, urgency and incontinence), and improvements in uroflowmetry parameters.

RESULTS

A total of 40 children were included in the study. There were 20 children in the non-animated group (16 girls, 4 boys; mean age: 10.5±3.2years) and 20 children in the animated group (15 girls, 5 boys; mean age: 9.5±3.63years). Patients received a mean of 5.2±1.9 sessions in both groups. Cessation of pelvic muscle activity on EMG was 75% in the non-animated group and 90% in the animated group (p=0.407). Reduction in VDSS was clinically significant in both groups (p=0.001 for both). There was no significant difference between the clinical success rates of the nonanimated and animated groups (80% vs. 70% respectively, p=0.125). PVR decreased by 68% in the non-animated group (p=0.015) while a 60% decrease was observed in the animated group (p=0.001).

CONCLUSION

In our study, there was no difference between animated and non-animated biofeedback therapy in terms of clinical success rates.

TYPE OF STUDY

Prospective comparative study LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Biofeedback as a first-line treatment for overactive bladder syndrome refractory to standard urotherapy in children

INTRODUCTION

Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and dysfunctional voiding (DV) are subgroups of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD). Standard urotherapy is the first-line treatment option of OAB in children.

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to investigate the use of biofeedback as a first-line treatment option in OAB refractory to standard urotherapy, and determine the factors affecting efficacy.

STUDY DESIGN

Between 2005 and 2015, we retrospectively analyzed a total of 136 hospital records of children with OAB who had not previously used any anticholinergics and were refractory to standard urotherapy. Patients with urgency and/or urge incontinence and/or making holding maneuvers to suppress urgency were defined as having OAB symptoms, and resolution of these complaints was defined as successful biofeedback therapy.

RESULTS

Seventy-three of 136 OAB patients' urgency recovered by biofeedback therapy with the success rate of 53% (p < 0.001). Sixty-two of 101 patients with holding maneuvers (success rate 61%) (p < 0.001), 70 of 101 patients with urgency incontinence (success rate 69%) (p < 0.001), 76 of 114 patients with daytime incontinence (success rate 66%) (p = 0.023), 87 of 97 patients with enuresis (success rate 89%) (p = 0.009), and 27 of 39 patients with dysuria (success rate 69%) (p = 0.007) recovered from their symptoms significantly. The mean lower urinary tract symptom score (LUTSS) was 16.38 and 8.18 before and after biofeedback therapies, respectively (p < 0.001) (Table). Patients without holding maneuvers (p = 0.045), daytime incontinence (p = 0.030), and enuresis (p = 0.045) had better recovery compared to the opposites.

DISCUSSION

Biofeedback can be thought of as the first-line treatment option when standard urotherapy fails in children with OAB.

Consolidation therapy is necessary following successful biofeedback treatment for pubertal chronic prostatitis patients: a 3-year follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

To assess long-term effects of biofeedback training on pubertal chronic prostatitis (CP).

METHODS

Pubertal CP patients received 12-week intensive biofeedback training and were divided into two groups: group 1 received further monthly training ≥ 24 (26-36) months; group 2 received further monthly training <24 (13-23) months. National Institutes of Health-CP Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) scores, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) and postvoid residual urine volume (PVR) were recorded monthly.

RESULTS

Total NIH-CPSI scores decreased significantly in group 1 (n = 10; mean age ± SD 16.5 ± 1.1 years) together with all subdomain scores (pain, urination, life impact). Total NIH-CPSI scores increased significantly in group 2 (n = 12; mean age ± SD 16.3 ± 1.2 years) at 30 and 36 months, and were significantly different from group 1 at these time points. Urination and life-impact scores increased significantly and Qmax decreased significantly in group 2 at 30 and 36 months. PVR was unchanged in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Twelve-week intensive biofeedback training requires lengthy consolidation sessions to achieve long-term success. Further investigation should assess longer intervals between consolidation sessions, for improving patient compliance and outcome.

High efficacy of biofeedback therapy for treatment of dysfunctional voiding in children

Introduction

Dysfunctional voiding is a frequent condition in children associated with symptoms of incontinence. The aim of this study was to present the efficacy of biofeedback treatment on the resolution of clinical symptoms in a large cohort of children with urodynamically confirmed dysfunctional voiding.

Material and methods

81 children (75 girls and 6 boys) aged 6-18 years (mean: 10.32 ±3.17 yrs.) with a dysfunctional voiding pattern are presented. 74/81 (92.6%) of children were unresponsive to standard urotherapy and prior pharmacotherapy. Symptoms of bladder dysfunction were evaluated by questionnaire, bladder diary and an urodynamic study according to definitions and standards set by ICCS. The biofeedback training was planned for 2 months. Each session consisted of about 30 repeats of 5 s contraction and 30 s relaxation of pelvic floor muscles and external urethral sphincter. Biofeedback was performed together with standard urotherapy.

Results

67 (82.72%) of the 81 children declared wetting during the day and 41 (50, 62%) – wetting during the night. 32/81 (39.5%) children had increased voiding frequency and 43 (53.08%) had decreased bladder capacity. Following 2 months of biofeedback therapy daytime incontinence resolved in 34/67 (50.7%) children and nighttime incontinence in 22/41 (53.65%). A further 40,3% declared partial improvement in daytime and 26.7% in nighttime wetting.

Conclusions

Biofeedback treatment is an effective therapeutic option for children with dysfunctional voiding. Pelvic floor therapy with biofeedback should be offered to children with dysfunctional voiding resistant to standard urotherapy.

Successful treatment for giggle incontinence with biofeedback

PURPOSE

Giggle incontinence is the involuntary and often unpredictable loss of urine during giggling or laughter in the absence of other stress incontinence. The pathophysiology is unclear, urodynamics are seldom helpful, and the efficacy of timed voiding and pharmacotherapy is limited. We postulated that improving sphincter tone and muscle recruitment using biofeedback techniques might be helpful in children with giggle incontinence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The charts of 12 patients with giggle incontinence were reviewed. Giggle incontinence severity, voiding patterns, associated symptoms and medical history including prior treatment were reviewed. Children were evaluated with uroflowmetry-electromyography and ultrasound measurement of post-void residual urine. They were assessed by the ability to isolate, contract and relax perineal muscles. They were taught Kegel exercises and instructed to perform them at home between weekly-biweekly sessions. Clinical success was characterized as a full or partial response, or nonresponse as defined by the International Children's Continence Society.

RESULTS

The 10 females and 2 males were 6 to 15 years old. Only 1 child had a partial response to first line therapy with timed voiding and bowel management. Seven children were treated with anticholinergic agents and/or pseudoephedrine with a partial response in 3. The 9 children with refractory giggle incontinence underwent biofeedback with a median of 4.5 sessions per child (range 2 to 8). The 6 patients who underwent 4 or more sessions had a full response that endured for at least 6 months and the 3 with fewer than 4 sessions had a partial response.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with giggle incontinence can heighten external urinary sphincter awareness and muscle recruitment using biofeedback techniques. Treatment with education and pharmacotherapy only led to a partial response in some cases. Biofeedback supplemented this treatment or avoided pharmacotherapy when at least 4 sessions were performed. Biofeedback therapy should be incorporated in the treatment algorithm for giggle incontinence in children and it should be considered before pharmacotherapy.

Voiding dysfunction in children. Pelvic-floor exercises or biofeedback therapy: a randomized study

Fifty-six patients 5.9-15.2 years old with dysfunctional elimination syndrome (DES) unimproved by previous therapies were randomly distributed into two voiding training programs: group 1 contained 26 patients submitted to 24 training sessions over a 3-month period; group 2 contained 30 patients submitted to 16 sessions over a 2-month period. Both groups adhered to a voiding and drinking schedule, received instruction on adequate toilet posture, were reinforced through the maintenance of voiding diaries, and went through proprioceptive and pelvic floor muscle training (Kegel exercises). Group 2 patients also received biofeedback therapy. Clinical evaluation was carried out before each program's initiation and 1, 6, and 12 months after each program's termination. All patients were submitted to renal ultrasonography and dynamic ultrasonography before and 6 months after each program's conclusion. Millivoltage recordings of pelvic floor muscles were compared before and after training. Urinary continence was improved after completion of either training program. Only those patients who received biofeedback training showed a significant decrease in postvoiding residual (PVR) urine as detected by dynamic ultrasonography. Our results show that either training regime can reduce episodic urinary incontinence and urinary tract infection but that further study is required to identify the optimal training duration.

Biofeedback therapy in the treatment of bladder overactivity, vesico-ureteral reflux and urinary tract infection

OBJECTIVE

Voiding disorders are commonly encountered in paediatric urology practice. Urinary incontinence often leads to the impairment of self-esteem but can also cause renal damage, when recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) or vesico-ureteral reflux (VUR) exists. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a biofeedback training program in children with a long history of voiding disorders.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1998 and 2002, 60 children with voiding disorders without neuropathic disease, aged 5-14, were treated. There were 48 girls and 12 boys. The main symptoms were daytime incontinence for 90%, urge syndrome for 78%, and night-time incontinence for 60%. UTIs were noted in 62% of the children, for 37% of them in association with a VUR. Ten weekly sessions were planned for all the children. They were given instructions on toilet behaviour and posture, and pelvic floor training. They had to supervise their voiding frequency and liquid intake at home using a chart. Biofeedback procedure used surface perineal electrodes. The exercises focused on relaxation of the perineum.

RESULTS

The first results were recorded 6 months after the last session: 96% of the children with daytime incontinence and 83% of the children with night-time incontinence were cured or improved; 84% of the children were free from infection and VUR was cured in 50% of cases. After a mean follow-up of 21 months, 8% of the children with daytime incontinence and 33% with night-time incontinence relapsed, with a significant difference between primary and secondary enuresis. A breakthrough UTI was observed in 19% of cases.

CONCLUSION

This non-invasive training program was effective in the treatment of daytime incontinence, UTI and VUR. There was an improvement in secondary but not primary enuresis. To prevent relapse, additional support sessions seem to be necessary.

Functional obstructed voiding in the neurologically normal patient

Voiding dysfunction is common and often is the result of urethral obstruction to urine flow. Obstruction can be due to failure of the sphincteric mechanism to sufficiently relax. Such functional obstructions may have smooth and/or striated muscle components. Identifying and characterizing functional bladder outlet obstruction enables the physician to effectively treat these symptomatic patients.

Home Uroflowmetry Biofeedback in Behavioral Training for Dysfunctional Voiding in School-Age Children: A Randomized Controlled Study

PURPOSE

We studied the added value of home uroflowmetry for biofeedback training compared to added attention and standard therapy in a multicomponent behavioral training program for voiding disorders in school-age children. Little is known about the role of biofeedback by home uroflowmetry for dysfunctional voiding due to NNBSD in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized controlled study was conducted at an outpatient pediatric incontinence university clinic from January 2000 to June 2003. A total of 192 children 6 to 16 years old who were suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections with or without urge incontinence were screened for NNBSD. Of 143 eligible patients 44 were randomly allocated to receive 8 weeks of standard therapy (outpatient behavioral therapy), 46 to receive 8 weeks of home video instructions together with standard therapy and 53 to receive 8 weeks of home uroflowmetry biofeedback together with standard therapy. After 8 weeks all treatment groups proceeded with standard therapy for 16 weeks, after which prophylaxis with antibiotics was stopped and patients were followed for another 6 months. Main outcome measurement was total relief of complaints, namely urinary tract infections and, if present, incontinence, at 12 months after randomization.

RESULTS

At baseline there was no reason to predict major incomparabilities between the groups. In an intent to treat analysis there was no difference in total relief between standard treatment (44%) and added video instruction (42%, RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.56). Total relief in the added home uroflowmetry group (55%) was higher than with standard therapy (RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.93), although the difference was not statistically significant. A per protocol analysis suggested that the groups with added home uroflowmetry showed better total relief than the pooled groups with standard therapy and those with added video (RR 1.40, 95% CI 0.98 to 2.00).

CONCLUSIONS

Home uroflowmetry appears to be a useful adjunctive treatment for the reduction of complaints in children with dysfunctional voiding due to nonneurogenic bladder-sphincter dyssynergia.

Diagnosis and management of dysfunctional voiding

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review will focus on the diagnosis and management of voiding dysfunction in neurologically and anatomically normal children. The discussion will highlight recent developments and research in the clinical approach as well as the etiology and classification of these disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

Voiding dysfunction in children encompasses a wide spectrum of clinical entities, recently classified collectively as dysfunctional elimination syndromes. Voiding dysfunction typically presents after toilet training and may originate from behavioral issues that arise around this time in childhood development. The spectrum of disorders includes urge syndrome, dysfunctional voiding with an uncoordination between the detrusor and urinary sphincter, and enuresis. Clinical symptoms may vary from mild incontinence to severe disorders with endpoints of irreversible bladder dysfunction with vesicoureteral reflux, urinary tract infection and resulting nephropathy. Diagnosis relies heavily on a good history and physical examination, but also includes radiologic and urodynamic evaluation. Treatment generally consists of medical therapy, primarily with anticholinergics as well as behavioral therapy to modify learned voiding patterns that contribute to the voiding dysfunction.

SUMMARY

This overview of voiding dysfunction in children outlines the established approaches to its diagnosis and treatment and highlights the most recent developments in the field.

Female voiding dysfunction

Female voiding dysfunction is poorly understood; it lacks standard definitions, and there is no consensus on diagnostic criteria. In the majority of women who are neurologically intact the cause is idiopathic. It affects the sufferers' quality of life, but unfortunately there is a paucity of published literature on its management. This review examines the current knowledge on the management of this common problem. Diagnosis is aimed at identifying the underlying aetiological factors, which are discussed, as well as the importance of a detailed history and focused physical examination. Investigations essential to management are outlined. Developments in the medical treatment of voiding dysfunction have been disappointing. The role of surgery is even more limited except for those with postoperative voiding problems after new-generation sling procedures. Intermittent self-catheterisation, supervised and supported by a dedicated nursing specialist, remains the mainstay of management. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to success. Emerging treatment modalities such as sacral and peripheral neuromodulation and the use of alpha(1)-blockers are discussed. Botulinum toxin A injections have been useful in some cases. There are relatively few publications on the effectiveness of these interventions in clinical practice. These issues need to be addressed by quality research. Female voiding dysfunction presents a challenge to urogynaecologists and urologists alike.

Outpatient biofeedback relaxation of the pelvic floor in treating pediatric dysfunctional voiding: a short-course program is effective

INTRODUCTION

We report the treatment results of a short course of biofeedback relaxation of the pelvic floor (BRPF) in treating children with dysfunctional voiding.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen girls and 6 boys with videourodynamically proved dysfunctional voiding were enrolled. To increase the awareness of the abnormal voiding pattern, the anatomy of the pelvis and the results of a voiding diary and videourodynamics were extensively explained to the patients/parents. Surface electromyography and uroflowmetry were used as biofeedback tools to teach the adequate relaxation of the pelvic floor during voiding. The child was asked to practice the relaxation technique at home at least twice a day. BRPF was performed once a week until the child had 2 consecutive normal bell-shaped uroflow recordings. Patients were reevaluated at 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks after BRPF training.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 8.3 +/- 3.8 years. The mean number of BRPF training sessions was 2.2 +/- 0.9. The mean follow-up period was 18.9 months. Normalization of abnormal uroflowmetry was achieved in 18 patients (90%). The mean maximal uroflow rate and voided volume increased from 13.3 +/- 4.3 to 18.0 +/- 3.4 ml/s (p < 0.01) and from 138 +/- 56 to 193 +/- 65 ml (p < 0.01), respectively. The postvoiding residual urine decreased from 54.5 +/- 47.6 to 21.3 +/- 10.6 ml (p < 0.01). Complete and partial resolution of voiding symptoms was achieved in 14 (70%) and 6 patients (30%), respectively. Recurrence was noted in 2 of the 10 patients who had complete resolution of symptoms and who had been followed up for more than 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-course outpatient BRPF is an effective treatment of pediatric dysfunctional voiding.

IMPROVED UROFLOW PARAMETERS AND POST-VOID RESIDUAL FOLLOWING BIOFEEDBACK THERAPY IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS WITH DYSFUNCTIONAL VOIDING DOES NOT CORRESPOND TO OUTCOME

PURPOSE

We evaluated pediatric patients who were treated with biofeedback for dysfunctional voiding with respect to clinical outcome and objective changes in uroflow parameters and post-void residual.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 81 patients treated for dysfunctional voiding and/or urinary tract infections with biofeedback. Conservative management had previously failed in all patients. Uroflow data and symptoms were reviewed, and clinical outcomes were recorded. For analysis, patients were stratified by symptoms of incontinence or presence of urinary tract infections.

RESULTS

Of 73 patients with incontinence 22 (30%) became dry, 36 (49%) had improvement and 15 (21%) reported no change following biofeedback. In 39 (78%) of 50 patients with recurrent urinary tract infections resolved. Overall, there was a significant (p <0.002) increase in peak flow and average flow rate, and a significant decrease in post-void residual and post-void residual as a percent of predicted bladder capacity. There was no significant change in voided volume following biofeedback. Overall, there was no significant difference in uroflow parameters and post-void residual following biofeedback between patients with incontinence or infections, except for a higher maximum flow rate in patients who continued to have infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of children with pelvic floor muscle biofeedback is associated with improved urinary continence and decreased urinary tract infections in the majority. It results in improvement in uroflow curves and parameters, and a decreased post-void residual. Posttreatment results of these parameters did not correlate with improvement in continence and urinary tract infections.

[Biofeedback for urinary bladder dysfunctions in childhood. Indications, practice and the results of therapy]

In children, abnormal behavior during micturition, i.e. detrusor/sphincter dyscoordination, causes persistent voiding problems, urinary incontinence and/or recurrent urinary tract infections in up to 15% of cases. Contractions of the external urethral sphincter during micturition lead to functional subvesical obstruction. Nowadays, biofeedback training is the most suitable therapy. Biofeedback training for children is based on the assumption that relaxation and contraction of the urinary external sphincter is a habitual phenomenon and can be restored. With specially developed, computer-assisted biofeedback programs, sphincter contraction and relaxation can be transformed into acoustic or visual signals. Acoustic or optical feedback indicates relaxation and contraction control to the patient. The residual urine volume should subsequently be assessed. The results should be reviewed after each micturition. Poor compliance sometimes makes biofeedback training impossible. Further biofeedback training at home is a reasonable suggestion. Good results-a response rate of up to 90%-demonstrates that biofeedback training is successful in the treatment of detrusor-sphincter dyscoordination. After effective therapy, associated urinary tract infections and vesicoureterorenal reflux may disappear.

The use and rationale of selective alpha blockade in children with non-neurogenic neurogenic bladder dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

We present here a long-term observation of 2 children with a rare syndrome with a non-neurogenic neurogenic bladder dysfunction (Hinman's syndrome), and we investigated the safety and efficacy of long-term use of terazosine in association with prophylactic antibiotics, timed voiding and a bowel regimen.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two children, 7 years-old (22 kg) and 11 years-old (36 kg) presented in 1997 to our pediatric urology clinic with symptoms of urgency, frequency, urge incontinence and nocturnal enuresis. Both children were placed in a regimen of terazosine (starting with 0.5 mg increasing until 2 mg).

RESULTS

There were no significant side effects throughout the entire treatment. The first 7-year old boy however developed some dizziness when the dose of terazosine was increased to 2 mg (after 4 weeks of administrating 1 mg), and this disappeared immediately when the dosage was reduced back to 1 mg daily. The urgency symptoms improved in both boys after 3 weeks of 1 mg terazosine. The secondary enuresis in the 11 year-old boy resolved after 2 months of 2 mg terazosine.

CONCLUSION

It is possible to say that the alpha-blocker medication, terazosine can be administered safely to children with a non-neurogenic bladder dysfunction, also known as the Hinman's syndrome. These results have shown that dysfunctional voiding, postvoiding residual and upper tract involvement can disappear over time when long term terazosine is given in combination with timed voiding, prophylactic antibiotic therapy and treatment of the associated constipation. Our observations also suggest a permanent effect after discontinuing the medication.

Biofeedback therapy and dysfunctional voiding in children

Dysfunctional voiding, a condition in which a neurologically intact child fails to relax the urinary sphincter during micturition, was first described in the 1970s. Clinically, these children have urinary incontinence and recurrent urinary tract infections. Biofeedback, through which the child is taught to relax the pelvic floor during voiding, has become an increasingly popular method of treatment. Many series, most retrospective, have shown biofeedback to be very effective in the treatment of this disorder.

Enuresis and incontinence in children

The terminology used to describe wetting children is defined. The etiologies of monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis and nonneuropathic bladder-sphincter dysfunction are described. Treatment strategies and the results of recent large scale studies are presented.

A modified biofeedback program for children with detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia: 5-year experience

PURPOSE

We reviewed our 5-year experience with a modified 4 to 6-session biofeedback program combining noninvasive urodynamic approaches with various psychological techniques, including externalizing the voiding problem, empowerment and praise, to treat children with detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Biofeedback was performed with a urodynamics processor that enables simultaneous recording of urine flow and electromyography, and visual display of flow/electromyography activity. Initially normal and abnormal voiding were explained in a unique way and the children observed relaxation and contraction of the pelvic floor muscles while visualizing the electromyography monitor. The bladders were filled naturally and surface electrodes were placed. Psychological strategies were used to engage and motivate the children to achieve maximal cooperation. The children voided while attempting relaxation and post-void residual urine volume was measured by bladder scan. Special and specific praise was provided for progress and increasing self-esteem. Patients returned monthly to review these concepts and practice voiding.

RESULTS

Of 87 children 77 completed the program, including 7 boys and 70 girls 3 to 17 years old (mean age 7.8) who required an average of 4.7 sessions (median 4). Results were achieved within 6 sessions in 82% of cases. Of the 77 children 59 (76%) had recurrent urinary tract infections, 38 (49%) had associated bladder instability, 19 (24%) had vesicoureteral reflux and 44 (58%) had constipation. Subjectively 47 patients (61%) reported pronounced improvement in urinary symptoms, while another 24 (32%) reported moderate improvement after biofeedback training. Objectively 47 children (61%) had normal flow with minimal electromyography activity during voiding and a normal post-void residual urine of less than 20% voided volume (p <0.002). In 28 cases (36%) flow studies improved (p <0.03) but post-void residual urine remained elevated. Vesicoureteral reflux resolved in 9 cases after biofeedback training. This approach was equally successful in children in all age groups. Those with more than a 2-year history of symptoms, poor bladder emptying and severe constipation had only moderate improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified biofeedback program including appropriate explanations and psychological approaches appeared effective for treating 92% of children with detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia. It is less invasive and requires less time than traditional methods, and patients are more compliant with treatment.

Biofeedback methodology: does it matter how we teach children how to relax the pelvic floor during voiding?

PURPOSE

Biofeedback is a noninvasive treatment that has been documented to be helpful for children with daytime wetting and/or urinary tract infection secondary to voiding dysfunction. We wish to determine the effectiveness of biofeedback in a large population of children presenting with voiding dysfunction, and evaluate differences between 2 different methods with regard to resolution of symptoms, improvement of objective measurements and patient satisfaction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The charts of 102 consecutive patients treated with biofeedback were reviewed. Of the patients 21 were asked to void 4 to 8 times in 6 hours seated in front of a uroflow device while receiving coaching by a staff member (method 1), 56 were taught pelvic floor relaxation techniques in front of a computer monitor that displayed electromyogram readings for 45 to 90 minutes (method 2), and both methods were used in 25. Outcome variables were obtained through chart review and telephone contact, and included resolution of symptoms, elimination of urinary tract infection, character of voiding curve, post-void residual, decrease in relaxation score and parental satisfaction.

RESULTS

Females comprised 79% of the population and median age at first treatment was 7.7 years (range 4.3 to 15.4 y). Daytime wetting was seen in 84% and recurrent urinary tract infection in 66% of patients. Among children with daytime wetting there was 100% success or improvement with method 1, 91% with method 2 and 80% with both methods (p not significant). Among those with urinary tract infection, 25% had subsequent infection with method 1, 25% with method 2 and 31% with both methods (p not significant). Normalization of the flow curve was seen in 94% with method 1, 67% with method 2 and 30% with both methods. Patients using both methods had a significantly greater post-void residual compared to patients using method 1 (0 versus 33%, p = 0.003). Relaxation scores decreased a median of 6.5% in with method 2 and 20% with both methods. After a median followup of 1.8 years 98% of parents expressed satisfaction with biofeedback with more than 80% indicating a high degree of satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduction of daytime wetting and urinary tract infection can be achieved regardless of the type of biofeedback used. Although symptoms improved, patients using a shorter but more intensive approach aimed at teaching control of the pelvic floor musculature were more likely to demonstrate persistent post-void residuals and abnormal flow curves. A considerable degree of enthusiasm was reported using both of these non-invasive forms of treatment.

Dysfunctional elimination syndrome in children without obvious spinal cord diseases

Elimination dysfunction is a functional disease that encompasses the urinary and GI tracts. Because the presentation is varied and ED is a disease of exclusion, a thorough history and physical examination are mandatory. Noninvasive management that includes the "fundamental four" and continuous engagement and encouragement of the patient and family are the pillars of treatment. For patients who are refractory to this approach, new research in children-directed biofeedback research shows promise.

Long-term efficacy of simple behavioral therapy for daytime wetting in children

PURPOSE

Behavioral therapy has proved benefit for children with daytime wetting but most studies have used biofeedback techniques and provide no long-term assessment of results. We previously reported similar results using simple behavioral therapy without biofeedback. We report the long-term efficacy of behavioral therapy for daytime wetting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our program of behavioral therapy included timed voiding, modification of fluid intake, positive reinforcement techniques and pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises to promote pelvic floor strengthening and relaxation. Questionnaires to assess therapeutic efficacy were mailed to patients who had completed therapy more than 1 year previously.

RESULTS

A total of 48 patients responded. Mean ages at the time of the initial clinic visit and questionnaire were 8.2 and 12.9 years, respectively. Improvement in symptoms was noted in approximately 74% of the cases during the first year following therapy. At a mean of 4. 7 years after treatment 59.4% of the patients had improved daytime urinary control, 51.1% improved daytime urinary frequency and 45.6% improved daytime urinary urgency. The frequency of urinary tract infections decreased in 56.4% of the cases. Measures of psychological well-being were also noted to be improved in a majority of patients. A total of 77.3% of the patients stated that they would recommend the program to others.

CONCLUSIONS

Simple behavioral therapy without biofeedback techniques is an effective and durable first line therapy for children with daytime wetting.

Biofeedback in overactive bladder

Biofeedback is a form of learning or re-education in which the participant is retrained within a closed feedback loop. Information about one or more of the patient's normally unconscious physiologic processes is made available to the patient as a visual, auditory, or tactile signal. Objective responses are recorded on a polygraph trace so that they can be easily observed. Subjective responses are more difficult to monitor and it is often difficult to separate these effects of biofeedback from the placebo effect. Biofeedback has been successfully employed in cases of urinary incontinence due to detrusor instability. Indeed, a recent report has shown that biofeedback-assisted behavioral treatment is more effective than either oxybutynin or placebo in the treatment of urge and mixed urinary incontinence in older, community-dwelling women. Patients embarking on biofeedback need to be well motivated and intelligent enough to understand what is expected of them. The treatment is time consuming for both the patient and the operator, but the benefits of successful treatment include a reduction in morbidity and side effects associated with other therapies. Biofeedback can be employed as an adjunct to other forms of treatment, such as drug therapy, and is particularly useful in children.

Pelvic-floor therapy and toilet training in young children with dysfunctional voiding and obstipation

OBJECTIVE

To analyse experience in treating young children (4-5 years old) with urodynamically confirmed voiding dysfunction, using a noninvasive training programme.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 1996 and October 1997, 20 children (all < 5 years old, mean age 4.45 years, 18 girls and two boys, mean ages 4.44 and 4.5 years, respectively) with voiding dysfunction were treated. Three children showed filling phase dysfunction alone (bladder instability), six emptying phase dysfunction alone (dysfunctional voiding) and 11 showed both filling and emptying phase dysfunction. Sixteen children had incontinence problems (three diurnal, two nocturnal and 11 diurnal and nocturnal). Eight children had a history of recurrent urinary tract infections and 12 girls had vaginal irritation. Four children were referred for perineal pain caused by spasms of the pelvic floor. Eight children had encopresis based on chronic obstipation. Therapy consisted of keeping a voiding and drinking chart, instructions on proper toilet posture, daily rules for application at home, and if possible relaxation biofeedback of the pelvic-floor muscles. Therapy was considered successful if incontinence and other urological symptoms resolved. The treatment of encopresis is also discussed.

RESULTS

Of the 20 children, 13 had a good result; they all became dry during the day and night, and encopresis resolved. Six children had moderate success; in one, nocturnal incontinence persisted, and in two diurnal and nocturnal incontinence continued. In two children encopresis persisted and in one the faecal incontinence ameliorated. In one child the therapy was prematurely interrupted because of lack of motivation.

CONCLUSION

This experience suggests that a noninvasive training programme is applicable in very young children with symptoms of dysfunctional elimination of urine and faeces.

Pelvic floor muscle retraining for pediatric voiding dysfunction using interactive computer games

PURPOSE

We evaluated a new noninvasive outpatient method of pelvic muscle retraining in children using computer game assisted biofeedback.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients in whom voiding dysfunction was confirmed by history, uroflowmetry-electromyography and voiding cystourethrography were enrolled in a pelvic floor muscle retraining program. Patients received a pretreatment, mid treatment and posttreatment survey instrument documenting subjective improvement, including the frequency of diurnal enuresis, nocturnal enuresis, constipation and encopresis. Pretreatment and posttreatment simultaneous uroflowmetry surface electrode electromyography was performed and post-void residual urine volume was determined in all patients.

RESULTS

A total of 8 boys and 33 girls 5 to 11 years old (mean age 7.2) completed therapy and were available for evaluation. These patients completed 2 to 11 (average 6) hourly treatment sessions. Followup was 3 to 15 months (average 7). At the midterm evaluation improvement in nocturnal enuresis was reported by 57% of the patients, diurnal enuresis by 84%, constipation by 83% and encopresis by 91%. End treatment evaluation revealed improvement in nocturnal enuresis by 90% of patients, diurnal enuresis by 89%, constipation by 100% and encopresis by 100%. Uroflowmetry-electromyography patterns improved in 42% of the patients and post-void residual urine decreased in 57%. Comparison of initial to end recorded millivoltage pelvic floor muscle values demonstrated that 56% of the patients had lower resting tone at the beginning of the session after completing therapy and 78% had improved contracting tone after performing Kegel exercises, as proved by increased microvoltage values. Initial uroflowmetry-electromyography revealed certain categories of cases, including a flattened voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and low post-void residual urine in 40%, a flattened voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and high post-void residual urine in 40%, a staccato voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and low post-void residual urine in 3%, and a staccato voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and high post-void residual urine in 17%. Of the girls 91% presented with the classic spinning top deformity on voiding cystourethrography. A total of 22 patients presented with a significant history of recurrent urinary tract infections, and infection developed in 3 during treatment and followup. Vesicoureteral reflux in 14 patients resolved during treatment in 3, reimplantation was performed in 1 and 10 are still being observed.

CONCLUSIONS

A program of conservative medical management with computer game assisted pelvic floor muscle retraining resulted in significant subjective improvement in continence, constipation and encopresis as well as objective improvement in uroflowmetry-electromyography, post-void residual urine volume and the microvoltage value of pelvic floor muscles in the majority of patients with dysfunctional voiding.

Biofeedback therapy for children with dysfunctional voiding

OBJECTIVES

Biofeedback therapy has been recognized as a treatment option for children with classic dysfunctional voiding (DV) where there is inadequate pelvic floor relaxation during voiding. However, there are few articles that discuss methodology and limited sites where it is available. In the hope of making biofeedback a more practical and accessible option, we report our indications, easy to duplicate methodology, and results.

METHODS

Twenty-one consecutive children diagnosed with DV refractory to standard therapy were enrolled in our biofeedback program. Therapy consisted of extensive age-appropriate explanations of DV and demonstrations of normal and abnormal voiding patterns. Cyclic uroflow studies with pelvic floor electromyography are performed, which the child monitors on analog chart and audio recorders. The child returns weekly until consistent relaxation of the pelvic floor during voiding is demonstrated. Timing between sessions is then increased to monitor progress and retention of concepts previously taught.

RESULTS

An excellent clinical response was one in which there was consistent relaxation of the pelvic floor throughout voiding, normal flow pattern, and no residual urine volume (urodynamic response), coupled with profound resolution of voiding symptoms. Seventeen of 21 (81%) had an excellent response, 3 (14%) had a fair response, and 1 (5%) was too inconsistent to rate. The average number of sessions to achieve a consistent urodynamic response was 3.7 (range 2 to 14) and full clinical response somewhat longer. Average follow-up since beginning therapy has been 34 months (range 14 to 51).

CONCLUSIONS

Biofeedback therapy is an effective method for treating DV with poor pelvic floor relaxation. Although initially labor intensive, it yields sustained positive results in most patients in a short time.

Pseudodyssynergia (contraction of the external sphincter during voiding) misdiagnosed as chronic nonbacterial prostatitis and the role of biofeedback as a therapeutic option

PURPOSE

Chronic lower urinary tract symptoms in young men are often attributed to misdiagnosed chronic nonbacterial prostatitis. We analyzed contraction of the external urinary sphincter during voiding (pseudodyssynergia) as an etiology of voiding dysfunction in men with misdiagnosed chronic prostatitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The video urodynamic studies of 43 men 23 to 50 years old with chronic voiding dysfunction secondary to pseudodyssynergia performed between January 1990 and June 1996 were retrospectively analyzed. Pseudodyssynergia was diagnosed based on several criteria, including electrical activity of the external sphincter during voiding in the absence of abdominal straining, and brief and intermittent closing of the membranous urethra during voiding detected by electromyography and fluoroscopy. Patients with bacterial infection or excessive leukocytes in expressed prostatic secretions were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

Of the patients 39 (91%) were firstborn men. Duration of symptoms ranged from 17 to 146 months (mean 43.6). Average number of previous antibiotic days ranged from 53 to 186 (mean 67.6). In addition, empirical trials of alpha-blockers were unsuccessful. Mean American Urological Association symptom score plus or minus standard deviation was 17.5 +/- 3.7, mean maximum flow rate was 13.3 +/- 4.2 ml. per second, mean detrusor pressure at maximum flow was 46.3 +/- 13.7 cm. water and mean detrusor contraction duration was 132.8 +/- 27.7 seconds. Behavior modification and biofeedback were successful in decreasing symptoms in 35 patients (83%) at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that some men who are categorized as having and empirically treated for chronic nonbacterial prostatitis are misdiagnosed and, in fact, have functional bladder outlet obstruction. Urodynamics are helpful in diagnosing and predicting success with behavior modification and biofeedback in these patients.

Outpatient pelvic-floor therapy in girls with daytime incontinence and dysfunctional voiding

OBJECTIVES

Analysis of an experience in treating girls with dysfunctional voiding with an outpatient pelvic-floor therapy consisting of voiding and drinking schedule, pelvic-floor relaxation biofeedback, instructions on toilet behavior, and uroflowmetry.

METHODS

The files of 50 girls (between 6 and 13 years of age) with urodynamically proven dysfunctional voiding who participated in the training program were analyzed retrospectively. Thirty-five girls received anticholinergics during the entire course of the training. The long-term absence of diurnal incontinence was used as the criterion for the success of the therapy. The duration of treatment before reaching this success was used as a parameter to measure the intensity of therapy. For a portion of the study group, a comparison is made with the duration of the preceding therapies to demonstrate indirectly the cumulative effect of the pelvic-floor therapy.

RESULTS

Forty-six girls (92%) normalized their flow and bladder capacity after therapy and saw their daytime incontinence disappearing. All of these girls achieved this result in a maximum of 18 sessions within a 6-month period. At the follow-up examination after 6 months, five of the girls had relapsed (10%), which brings the ultimate success after 6 months of follow-up to 82%.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic-floor therapy seems to be a reasonable and meaningful component in the treatment of bladder dysfunction in which detrusor-sphincter dyscoordination plays a role.

Etiology of voiding dysfunction in men less than 50 years of age

OBJECTIVES

Chronic lower urinary tract symptoms in young men are often attributed to misdiagnosed chronic nonbacterial prostatitis. The purpose of this study was to analyze etiology of chronic voiding dysfunction in men less than 50 years of age.

METHODS

The videourodynamic studies of 137 men 50 years of age or less with chronic voiding dysfunction, performed between January 1990 and October 1995, were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The distribution of urodynamic abnormalities included 74 (54%) patients with primary vesical neck obstruction, 33 (24%) with obstruction localized to membranous urethra (pseudodyssnergia), 23 (17%) with impaired bladder contractility, and the remaining 7 (5%) with an acontractile bladder. Detrusor instability was present in 67 men (49%).

CONCLUSIONS

Voiding dysfunction among young men is common and is often misdiagnosed. Videourodynamic evaluation is very useful in establishing the correct diagnosis and ultimately in delivery of appropriate therapy.

Continence mechanism of the orthotopic neobladder: urodynamic analysis of ileocolic neobladder and external urethral sphincter functions

BACKGROUND

The main objectives of bladder substitution are the preservation of the upper urinary tract and maintenance of urinary continence. Orthotopic bladder substitution makes it possible to achieve urinary continence as well as normal passage of urine through the urethra. Creation of a low pressure reservoir and careful preservation of the distal sphincter mechanism are considered to be of utmost importance for the maintenance of urinary continence after orthotopic bladder substitution. However, sphincter behavior after orthotopic bladder substitution has not been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the vesicourethral continence mechanism after orthotopic bladder substitution in male patients.

METHODS

Urodynamic evaluation was performed in 14 male patients after cystoprostatectomy for bladder cancer and an ileocolic neobladder using a cecourethral anastomosis.

RESULTS

Good continence was achieved in 86% (12/14) of the patients during the day and in 79% (11/14) at night. On cystometry, maximum capacity of the neobladders was 434 +/- 21 ml (mean +/- SEM), and basal pressure at maximum capacity was 15.6 +/- 0.9 cm water. Phasic neobladder contraction with amplitudes ranging from 14 to 40 (26.6 +/- 2.7) cm water were noted in 11 of 14 patients. Sphincter electromyography demonstrated an increase in the frequency of action potentials of the external urethral sphincter during neobladder filling from empty to 80% of capacity (from 8.9 +/- 1.6 to 14.6 +/- 2.1 spikes per second; mean percentage increase, 64%, in patients with daytime continence). Maximum urethral closure pressure on urethral pressure profile was 49.9 +/- 3.5 (range, 30 to 64) cm water in patients with daytime continence, while in two patients who were incontinent during the day and at night maximum urethral closure pressure was lower (16 and 24 cm water) and the recruitment of action potentials of the external urethral sphincter during neobladder filling was impaired (percentage increase, 15% and 20%).

CONCLUSIONS

An ileocolic neobladder has characteristics of a low pressure reservoir with a satisfactory continence rate. The vesicourethral continence reflex is well preserved in patients with continence after orthotopic bladder substitution.

Functional obstruction of the female urethra: relevance to refractory bed wetting and recurrent urinary tract infection

A 20-year-old woman and 3 girls were referred to our urodynamic unit because of refractory bed wetting, recurrent urinary tract infection, and/or weak stream. All patients required extremely high detrusor pressure to evacuate urine, a mean of 116 cm of water. Urethral configuration was either a ballooning or a spinning-top shape. Organic stenosis of the urethra was not detected by bougie à boule. Urodynamically, functional obstruction at the distal urethra was found to be an etiology of these symptoms. When the urethra was dilated with the Otis urethrotome, all patients were greatly benefitted both symptomatically and urodynamically without an adverse effect of urinary incontinence. We stress clinical importance of pressure flow study and fluoroscopic monitoring of the bladder and urethra when one encounters female patients with long histories of above symptoms.

Diagnosis and treatment for children who cannot control urination

Primary NE is probably a condition rooted in biologic problems. There is a strong hereditary component. Altered nervous system function may lead to disorganization of how bladder function is controlled and how vasopressin is released. In extreme cases, this disorganization may also be reflected in psychologic issues, such as attention-deficit disorder. Primary NE should not be viewed as laziness of the child, but as an obstacle the child needs professional help to hurdle. The practitioner should collaborate with a pediatrician, urologist, and psychologist in managing children who wet. Routine office evaluation should exclude incontinence as a cause of wetting. When a screening ultrasonogram is normal, this helps the practitioner determine that striking birth defects are unlikely. Follow-up of management by interview with interested staff is necessary. Wetting is reliably correctable and probably best addressed by combination treatment structured as an ETP. Specific treatments vary according to personal preferences. The treatment with strongest scientific research, desmopressin, may be the least effective for cure. The most effective treatment for cure, alarm with behavior reinforcement, is the least often prescribed. A miscellany of adjunctive treatments should be suggested when there are abnormalities in functional bladder capacity, defecation, urethritis, vulvitis, diet sensitivity, upper-airway obstruction, and other areas.

Hinman syndrome: a vicious cycle

In Hinman syndrome, psychosocial problems are associated with voiding dysfunction, urinary tract infections, and incontinence. The latter can exacerbate the former and a vicious cycle can result in worsening symptoms and renal sequelae. Although interruption of this cycle is difficult, urologic recognition and treatment can have a positive effect. Five cases are presented that demonstrate the cyclical features of Hinman syndrome.