Botulinum-A toxin for treating detrusor hyperreflexia in spinal cord injured patients: a new alternative to anticholinergic drugs? Preliminary results

[A review of intravesical treatment options in neuro-urology]

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction is caused by various disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system. This can result in several malfunctions of the storage and voiding phase, which are reflected in symptoms such as urgency, urinary incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections and post-void residual urine. Reduced quality of life, impairment of the upper urinary tract, reduced employment opportunities and worsening of the symptoms of the underlying condition can be the consequences. Therefore, the primary goals of neuro-urology are to protect the upper urinary tract, maintain continence and improve the quality of life of those affected. To achieve these goals, different intravesical drug and electrophysical therapy options are available. These article addresses these intravesical therapy options as well as their indication and relevance in neuro-urology.

Intravesical botulinum-A toxin in children with refractory non-neurogenic overactive bladder

INTRODUCTION

Overactive bladder (OAB) with urinary incontinence poses a potentially significant impact on daily activities and quality of life. OAB can be unresponsive to specific urotherapy and antispasmodic medication. Due to its successful outcomes in the treatment of neurogenic bladder, intravesical botulinum-A toxin (BTX-A) became a possible solution for children refractory to treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the outcomes of intravesical BTX-A injections on bladder volume and incontinence in children with refractory OAB.

STUDY DESIGN

The charts of children diagnosed with refractory non-neurogenic OAB who underwent BTX-A treatment in our centre since 2011 were retrospectively analysed. The functional bladder volume (FBV) is expressed as a percentage of the expected bladder capacity (EBC) for age. Dependent variables were compared using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. A multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of the response on urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

Fifty children (41 boys) with a median age of 9.9 years were included. In the short term, there was a significant increase in FBV after initial BTX-A treatment from a median of 52.9%-70% (p = 0.000). In the short (<6 months) and long term (6-12 months) 72% and 46% showed improvement of continence, respectively. Male gender and small baseline FBV predict a positive outcome on continence in the long term. The most prevalent complications were urinary tract infections occurring in five cases (10%).

DISCUSSION

Although BTX-A injections serve as an effective therapy to increase bladder volume in non-neurogenic OAB children, the outcomes on urinary incontinence are highly variable. This may be a consequence of the multifactorial aspects of this condition. BTX-A will enable children to inhibit their bladder urgency. The effectiveness of post-BTX-A urotherapy training will therefore most probably be higher. We believe that BTX-A injections should be reserved for children refractory to both specific urotherapy and medication. An appropriate population seems to be children with severe OAB symptoms, confirmed detrusor overactivity in urodynamic study and reduced bladder volume.

CONCLUSION

In refractory OAB children, BTX-A injections are safe and effective in enlarging bladder volume and reducing OAB symptoms, particularly in the first six months after injection.

A single-blind randomized control trial of trigonal versus nontrigonal Botulinum toxin-A injections for patients with urinary incontinence and poor bladder compliance secondary to spinal cord injury

Objective: To evaluate the effect of trigonal Botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A) injections on patients with urinary incontinence (UI) and poor bladder compliance (BC) secondary to spinal cord injury (SCI).Design: A single-blind randomized control trial.Setting: Department of urology in three hospitals.Participants: SCI patients with UI and poor BC were randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the control group.Interventions: The experimental group received an injection of 240 U BTX-A into the detrusor plus 60 U BTX-A into the trigone, while the control group received 300 U BTX-A into the detrusor sparing the trigone.Outcome Measures: Video urodynamic outcomes, including vesicoureteric reflux (VUR), detrusor leak point pressure (DLPP), and detrusor leak point volume (DLPV), were measured at baseline and week 12. UI episodes, voiding volume, and Incontinence Quality of Life (I-QoL) were assessed at baseline, week 2, 4, 8 and 12.Results: No patient reported new-onset VUR. Compared with baseline data, a significant improvement was achieved in both groups, whereas compared with DLPP and DLPV, a significant difference was noted between the two groups 12 weeks after injection. In the experimental group, the improvement of mean weekly UI episodes, voiding volume, and I-QoL were significantly better than those in the control group at 4, 8, and 12 weeks, respectively (all P < 0.05). Systemic complications of BTX-A injection were not reported.Conclusion: Trigonal BTX-A injection is more effective and safer than nontrigonal BTX-A injection for SCI patients with UI secondary to neurogenic-poor BC and does not result in VUR.

Autonomic dysreflexia associated with cervical spinal cord gliofibroma: case report

BACKGROUND

Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is an abnormal reflex of the autonomic nervous system normally observed in patients with spinal cord injury from the sixth thoracic vertebra and above. AD causes various symptoms including paroxysmal hypertension due to stimulus. Here, we report a case of recurrent AD associated with cervical spinal cord tumor.

CASE PRESENTATION

The patient was a 57-year-old man. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intramedullary lesion in the C2, C6, and high Th12 levels. During the course of treatment, sudden loss of consciousness occurred together with abnormal paroxysmal hypertension, marked facial sweating, left upward conjugate gaze deviation, ankylosis of both upper and lower extremities, and mydriasis. Seizures repeatedly occurred, with symptoms disappearing after approximately 30 min. AD associated with cervical spinal cord tumor was diagnosed. Histological examination by tumor biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of gliofibroma. Radiotherapy was performed targeting the entire brain and spinal cord. The patient died approximately 3 months after treatment was started.

CONCLUSIONS

AD is rarely associated with spinal cord tumor, and this is the first case associated with cervical spinal cord gliofibroma. AD is important to recognize, since immediate and appropriate response is required.

Botulinum Toxin Injection for Medically Refractory Neurogenic Bladder in Children: A Systematic Review

The objective was to evaluate the use of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) injection in children with medically refractory neurogenic bladder. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using three databases (Medline via PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE). Articles evaluating BTX-A in children with neurogenic bladder were collected. The clinical and urodynamic parameters were reviewed for the safety and efficacy evaluation. Sixteen studies were selected into this study and a total of 455 children with medical refractory neurogenic bladder were evaluated. All of the patients had received traditional conservative medications such as antimuscarinics and intermittent catheterization as previous treatment. The duration of treatments ranged from 2 months to 5.7 years. Improvements in incontinence and vesicoureteral reflux were the most common clinical outcomes. The detrusor pressure, bladder capacity and bladder compliance improvement were the most common urodynamic parameters which had been reported. However, patient satisfaction with the procedure remained controversial. There was only a minimal risk of minor adverse effects. In all of the studies, BTX-A injection was well tolerated. In conclusion, BTX-A injection appears to be a safe and effective treatment in the management of medically unresponsive neurogenic bladder in children. There is currently no evidence that the use of BTX-A injection could be used as a first-line therapy for neurogenic bladder in children.

Antibiotic regimen and route of administration do not alter rates of urinary tract infection after intravesical botulinum toxin injection for overactive bladder

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Guidelines vary on antibiotic prophylaxis for onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) treatment for overactive bladder (OAB). Our primary objective was to determine whether any prophylactic regimen is more effective in preventing urinary tract infection (UTI) after Botox. The secondary objective was to identify prophylactic practice patterns among female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) providers of different training backgrounds as well as general urologists.

METHODS

This was a secondary analysis of a retrospective cohort study on urinary retention after Botox injection in women with and without diabetes mellitus and OAB. Women > 18 years old who underwent Botox injection for OAB between January 2013 and September 2018 were included. Exclusion criteria were history of urinary retention and neuromuscular bladder dysfunction.

RESULTS

A total of 565 patients were included. Two hundred eighty (49.6%) were treated by OB-GYN FPMRS, 209 (37.0%) by urology FPMRS and 76 (13.5%) by general urologists. The majority (92.9%) received antibiotic prophylaxis: 44.4% received intravenous (IV) only, 8.9% received oral (PO) only, and 39.7% received combination IV and PO prophylaxis. Urology FPMRS used antibiotic prophylaxis less frequently (p = 0.003). Within 3 months, 171 patients developed UTI (30.4%). There was no difference in post-procedural UTI for any antibiotic regimen compared to no prophylaxis. No route of antibiotic administration was superior at preventing UTI.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, no route of antibiotic administration was more effective in the prevention of UTI. Antibiotic prophylaxis did not lower the rate of post-procedural UTI compared to no antibiotics.

Frontiers in the Clinical Applications of Botulinum Toxin A as Treatment for Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction

Patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) experience urinary incontinence with or without difficult urination, which might promote recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and exacerbate upper urinary tract function. Nonetheless, appropriate bladder management has been shown to reduce urological complications and improve quality of life. In addition to pharmacological therapy and surgical intervention, botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) has been widely utilized in NLUTD. The therapeutic efficacy of detrusor BoNT-A injections for neurogenic detrusor overactivity due to spinal cord injury (SCI), multiple sclerosis, or other central nervous system lesions, such as cerebrovascular accident, Parkinson disease, early dementia, and pediatric NLUTD due to myelomeningocele, has been well established, with repeated BoNT-A injections every 6 to 9 months being necessary to maintain its therapeutic effects. Urethral BoNT-A injection can decrease urethral sphincter resistance and facilitate efficient voiding in patients with NLUTD who wish to preserve self-voiding. Detrusor BoNT-A injection can also decrease the occurrence of autonomic dysreflexia in patients with SCI, even after failed augmentation enterocystoplasty, with additional benefits including reduced UTI episodes and preserved renal function with repeated injections. However, this treatment does have some side effects. Complete informed consent for BoNT-A injection therapy with full disclosure of its potential complications should therefore be obtained before this procedure is undertaken.

Does symptom severity predict response to low-dose onabotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of urgency urinary incontinence?

OBJECTIVE

Intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA is a third-line treatment for urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) which is customarily reserved for severe disease. We sought to determine if symptom severity predicts the proportional response to onabotulinumtoxinA and whether low-dose injection may be an appropriate treatment for mild-moderate symptoms.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective cohort study compared patients with urgency urinary incontinence who were recruited from the Urogynecology Clinic with mild-moderate (2-9 episodes/3-day diary) and severe UUI (>9 episodes/3-day diary) symptoms. Twenty-eight subjects were treated (11 mild-moderate, 17 severe) with 50 units of intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA. Voiding diaries and validated questionnaires (UDI-6 and IIQ-7) were collected at baseline and one, six, and twelve months post-treatment. The primary outcome was the difference in percent reduction in UUI episodes per 3-day diary at one month. Secondary outcomes included differences in absolute reduction of UUI events, treatment success rate (defined as greater than 50% reduction in UUI episodes), changes in UDI-6 and IIQ-7 questionnaire scores, and rates of urinary retention, self-catheterization, and urinary tract infection. Normally distributed data are presented as means with standard deviations (SD) and groups were compared using the two sample t-test. Data that were not normally distributed are presented as medians with the interquartile range (IQR) and were compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test.

RESULTS

The mild-moderate group showed median improvement; 100% (IQR: 100%, 100%) and severe group; 81% (IQR: 35%, 100%), p < 0.019. Both had significant improvement in UUI episodes; the mild-moderate group decreased by four and the severe group by 15. No differences were noted in percent reduction between groups. There was no association between baseline severity and percent reduction in UUI episodes (rs = 0.127, p = 0.544); however, absolute reduction was highly correlated (rs = -0.821, p < 0.001). Treatment success was 90% in mild-moderate and 73% in the severe group (p = 0.615). Complications included urinary tract infections (25%) and intermittent catheterization (3.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with both mild-moderate and severe symptoms showed a statistically significant improvement in UUI events from baseline to one month, but no difference between the groups in proportional improvement or treatment success.

Bladder and Bowel Management in Dogs With Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury in companion dogs can lead to urinary and fecal incontinence or retention, depending on the severity, and localization of the lesion along the canine nervous system. The bladder and gastrointestinal dysfunction caused by lesions of the autonomic system can be difficult to recognize, interpret and are easily overlooked. Nevertheless, it is crucial to maintain a high degree of awareness of the impact of micturition and defecation disturbances on the animal's condition, welfare and on the owner. The management of these disabilities is all the more challenging that the autonomic nervous system physiology is a complex topic. In this review, we propose to briefly remind the reader the physiology of micturition and defecation in dogs. We then present the bladder and gastrointestinal clinical signs associated with sacral lesions (i.e., the L7-S3 spinal cord segments and nerves) and supra-sacral lesions (i.e., cranial to the L7 spinal cord segment), largely in the context of intervertebral disc herniation. We summarize what is known about the natural recovery of urinary and fecal continence in dogs after spinal cord injury. In particular we review the incidence of urinary tract infection after injury. We finally explore the past and recent literature describing management of urinary and fecal dysfunction in the acute and chronic phase of spinal cord injury. This comprises medical therapies but importantly a number of surgical options, some known for decades such as sacral nerve stimulation, that might spark some interest in the field of spinal cord injury in companion dogs.

A retrospective review of the long term clinical outcomes of patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction following transverse myelitis

AIMS

Transverse myelitis (TM) is an inflammation of the spinal cord which causes neurological deficit in motor, sensory, and autonomic pathways. Persistent neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) is common even where motor and sensory impairment is recovered. Long term follow-up is required to ensure optimal bladder management and protection of the upper tracts. We describe the clinical outcomes for a cohort of patients with TM who have received neurourological follow-up in a specialist center.

METHODS

A retrospective review of TM patient records was performed. Current pharmaceutical and surgical management, upper tract status, and patient reported symptoms are reported. Changes in urodynamic parameters and bladder emptying technique between current and baseline were analyzed.

RESULTS

Sixty patients with NLUTD following TM were identified. The mean age at onset of NLUTD was 29 years (0-77 years). The mean follow-up was 13 years. 55% of patients were taking antimuscarinic medication, 53% of patients had intradetrusor botulinum toxin injections and 5% had bladder augmentation surgery. Forty-one patients had a baseline and recent urodynamic study which could be compared. Fifty-three of fifty-eight patients with a recent renal ultrasound had normal renal appearance. Four had mild hydronephrosis and one more extensive hydronephrosis.

CONCLUSION

TM can have a persistent effect on lower urinary tract function. There is potential for upper tract damage if bladder management is not optimized. We have demonstrated that in a specialist neurourology unit within a tertiary center, one can provide acceptable long term outcomes following international guidelines.

Robot-assisted Supratrigonal Cystectomy and Augmentation Cystoplasty with Totally Intracorporeal Reconstruction in Neurourological Patients: Technique Description and Preliminary Results

BACKGROUND

Augmentation cystoplasty as a third-line therapy for neurogenic detrusor overactivity performed by an open approach has long been studied. Few laparoscopic and robot-assisted series have been reported.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and functional outcomes of completely intracorporeal robot-assisted supratrigonal cystectomy and augmentation cystoplasty (RASCAC) in patients with refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We identified all patients undergoing RASCAC, as treatment for refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity, from August 2016 to April 2018.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

RASCAC was performed in all cases using a standardized technique with the da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) in a four-arm configuration.

MEASUREMENTS

Perioperative data, and functional and urodynamic results at 1-yr follow-up were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata version 15.1.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Ten patients were identified. No conversion to open surgery was needed. The median operative time was 250 (interquartile range 210-268) min, the median estimated blood loss was 75 (50-255) ml, and the median hospitalization time was 12 (10.5-13) d. The 30-d major complication rate was 10%. Two patients presented a late urinary fistula; in one of the cases, surgical revision was needed. In both cases, low compliance to intermittent self-catheterization was identified. At 1-yr follow-up, functional and urodynamic outcomes were excellent.

CONCLUSIONS

Robot-assisted augmentation cystoplasty has been shown to be safe and feasible, with a reasonable operative time and low complication rate in experienced hands. A higher number of patients and longer follow-up are, however, warranted to draw definitive conclusions.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this report, we look at the outcomes of robot-assisted supratrigonal cystectomy and augmentation cystoplasty in neurourological patients. Perioperative, functional, and urodynamic results are promising. Further studies with a longer follow-up are needed to confirm these findings.

Will repeated botulinum toxin A improve detrusor overactivity and bladder compliance in patients with chronic spinal cord injury?

Chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) can induce neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO), leading to urinary incontinence and renal damage due to low bladder compliance and high detrusor pressure during the storage and voiding of urine. In 2011, Botox^® (onabotulinumtoxinA, botulinum neurotoxin serotype A [BoNT-A]) was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of NDO. Intradetrusor injection of BoNT-A has been shown to have clinical utility for the treatment of urinary incontinence, with consequent improvements in quality of life for patients. In the past 20 years, this treatment has been shown to be an effective treatment for patients with SCI refractory to antimuscarinic medication. The present review focused on publications in MEDLINE/PubMed relating to botulinum toxin to evaluate the treatment outcomes of repeated injection of BoNT-A, the mechanisms of action, results of clinical and urodynamic studies, and adverse effects.

Clinical Efficacy of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate Combined with Oral Anticholinergics or Botulinum Toxin - A Injection to Treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia with Overactive Bladder: A Case-Control Study

Introduction

Recent investigations showed that anticholinergic drugs could use for the management of storage symptoms after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). The use of intravesical botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A) for the management of overactive bladder is rapidly increasing. In this research, we assess the efficacy of BTX-A vs solifenacin in men suffering from bladder outlet obstruction–over active bladder (BOO-OAB) managed with TURP.

Methods

In this case–control study, 50 men with BOO-OAB randomized into two groups. The control group (A) underwent TURP and subsequently managed by solifenacin 5 mg daily, and the case group (B) underwent TURP and BTX-A injection in the bladder wall in the same session. Treatment success was the primary outcome and defined as post-injection improvement in the storage score of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) from baseline.

Results

The IPSS, post-void residual volume, frequency, incomplete emptying, nocturia and urgency subscores considerably ameliorated after 12 weeks and 36 weeks for both groups, but it was more significant in the case arm. The quality of life (QoL) scores significantly improved after the treatments in both groups. Intervention group showed significant reductions regarding urgency incontinence compared with the solifenacin group at 12th and 36th weeks.

Conclusion

BTX-A is an effective and well-tolerated treatment in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who are candidates of TURP and simultaneously suffer from OAB symptoms.

Are 200 units of onabotulinumtoxin A sufficient for the suppression of neurogenic detrusor overactivity in individuals with established 300-unit botulinum toxin treatment? A retrospective cohort study

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of 200-unit onabotulinumtoxin A detrusor injections on neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) in patients who have previously been treated with 300-unit injections.

SETTING

Tertiary urologic referral center in Switzerland.

METHODS

The patient database was screened for patients with NDO as a result of chronic (≥ 12 months) spinal cord injury (SCI), who had been treated with 300- followed by 200-unit onabotulinumtoxin A detrusor injections. Patient characteristics, bladder management data and concurrent bladder medication as well as urodynamic data were collected. The percent changes in the urodynamic parameters from the 300- to the 200-unit treatment phase were calculated to test for non-inferiority of the 200-unit treatment.

RESULTS

The data of 61 individuals with a mean age of 44 ± 15 years (range 18-73 years) and a mean 13.2 ± 9.5 years (range 2-43 years) since SCI were analyzed. The 200-unit treatment was not inferior regarding the urodynamic parameters compared to the 300-unit treatment. Furthermore, the proportion of patients with urinary incontinence was similar for both doses. There was no significant difference in the number of daily bladder evacuations (p = 0.13) or used incontinence pads (p = 0.43) between the two dosage phases. Moreover, there was no significant (p = 0.19) increase in the use of concurrent NDO medication (antimuscarinics or mirabegron) during the 200-unit treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment of NDO with 200 units of onabotulinumtoxin A was not inferior to a 300-unit treatment regarding urodynamic parameters in patients with chronic SCI.

Intravesical Loss of OnabotulinumtoxinA During Endoscopic Intradetrusor Injection - A Multicenter Experience

Purpose

To evaluate intravesical loss of onabolunumtoxinA (onaBTA) during endoscopic injection into the bladder wall for treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). The intraluminal loss of onaBTA cannot be determined directly, therefore we added methylene blue (MB) to reconstitute onaBTA. Subsequently we used spectrophotometry to determine the total amount of MB in the irrigation fluid, which allowed us to calculate total intraluminal loss of onaBTA.

Methods

The study population was consisted of 48 patients with NDO. The mean age was 36.6±8.9 years. Forty-two patients suffered from NDO due to spinal cord injury and 6 patients suffered from multiple sclerosis. Each patient received 200 units of onaBTA administered by 30 endoscopic injections (1 mL per injection) using a 23-G needle. The entire volume of irrigation fluid was collected and spectrophotometry was used to determine the MB concentration. The total amount of injected onaBTA, total amount of irrigation solution and the known amount of MB used during reconstitution, allowed for the determination of intravesical loss of onaBTA.

Results

Forty-five patients were included in the final analysis. The mean volume of irrigation fluid was 603.33±400.14 mL. The mean absorbance was 0.14±0.12 with the mean MB concentration 0.19±0.18 mg/L. The mean calculated loss of onaBTA was 4.14±4.11 units.

Conclusions

The endoscopic injection of onaBTA marked by MB into the bladder wall is associated with minimal intravesical loss of the agent, representing less than 3% of the administered dose of MB. This may reflect the amount of the onaBTA detected in the irrigation fluid.

Mechanism of Action of Botulinum Toxin A in Treatment of Functional Urological Disorders

Intravesical botulinum toxin (BoNT) injection is effective in reducing urgency and urinary incontinence. It temporarily inhibits the detrusor muscle contraction by blocking the release of acetylcholine (Ach) from the preganglionic and postganglionic nerves in the efferent nerves. BoNT-A also blocks ATP release from purinergic efferent nerves in the detrusor muscle. In afferent nerves, BoNT-A injection markedly reduces the urothelial ATP release and increases nitric oxide (NO) release from the urothelium. BoNT-A injection in the urethra or bladder has been developed in the past few decades as the treatment method for detrusor sphincter dyssyndergia, incontinence due to neurogenic or idiopathic detrusor overactivity, sensory disorders, including bladder hypersensitivity, overactive bladder, and interstitial cystitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Although the FDA only approved BoNT-A injection treatment for neurogenic detrusor overactivity and for refractory overactive bladder, emerging clinical trials have demonstrated the benefits of BoNT-A treatment in functional urological disorders. Cautious selection of patients and urodynamic evaluation for confirmation of diagnosis are crucial to maximize the successful outcomes of BoNT-A treatment.

Effect of Botulinum Toxin A on Bladder Pain-Molecular Evidence and Animal Studies

Botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) is a powerful neurotoxin with long-lasting activity that blocks muscle contractions. In addition to effects on neuromuscular junctions, BTX-A also plays a role in sensory feedback loops, suggesting the potentiality for pain relief. Although the only approved indications for BTX-A in the bladder are neurogenic detrusor overactivity and refractory overactive bladder, BTX-A injections to treat bladder pain refractory to conventional therapies are also recommended. The mechanism of BTX-A activity in bladder pain is complex, with several hypotheses proposed in recent studies. Here we comprehensively reviewed properties of BTX-A in peripheral afferent and efferent nerves, the inhibition of nociceptive neurotransmitter release, the reduction of stretch-related visceral pain, and its anti-inflammatory effects on the bladder urothelium. Studies have also revealed possible effects of BTX-A in the human brain. However, further basic and clinical studies are warranted to provide solid evidence-based support in using BTX-A to treat bladder pain.

The role of dry-lab and cadaveric simulation for cystoscopy and intravesical Botulinum toxin injections

Background

The aim of this study is to assess validity of the ETXY Multifunctional trainer (ProDelphus, Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil), a bench-top dry-lab model for simulation of cystoscopy and intravesical injections of Botulinum Toxin A (BTX-A) injections, in terms of educational value, feasibility and acceptability as well as evaluating the use of fresh frozen cadavers for intravesical BTX-A injections.

Methods

Prospective study with novice trainees and urologists (n=58) trained by experts (n=14) in a 30-min hands-on training session in intravesical administration of BTX-A over 6 training sessions throughout one year. Outcome measures were demonstrated through distribution and analysis of evaluation surveys on a 5-point Likert scale.

Results

There were 56 participants (96.6%) believed that the model has a role in training for the procedure. Participants also reported the training being an important confidence-booster for performing BTX-A injections (mean: 4.05/5) and useful for teaching procedural steps (mean: 3.89). Experts highly rated the realism of the simulator especially in simulation of needle penetration (mean: 3.98) and delivery (mean 4.03). Fresh frozen cadavers had a mean realism rating of 4.54 and participants affirmed that they should be routinely used for training and assessment (mean: 3.92).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated face and content validity in addition to establishing the feasibility and acceptability of the ETXY Multifunctional model in the training of intravesical BTX-A administration. Additionally, the simulator demonstrated educational value and fresh frozen cadavers were shown to be the preferred simulation modality for this procedure. Further evaluation in randomised controlled studies is needed to demonstrate higher evidence quality.

Clinical application of intravesical botulinum toxin type A for overactive bladder and interstitial cystitis

After decades of clinical and basic science research, the clinical application of botulinum toxin A (Botox) in urology has been extended to neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO), idiopathic detrusor overactivity, refractory overactive bladder (OAB), interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), lower urinary tract symptoms, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and neurogenic or non-neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in children. Botox selectively disrupts and modulates neurotransmission, suppresses detrusor overactivity, and modulates sensory function, inflammation, and glandular function. In addition to motor effects, Botox has been found to have sensory inhibitory effects and anti-inflammatory effects; therefore, it has been used to treat IC/BPS and OAB. Currently, Botox has been approved for the treatment of NDO and OAB. Recent clinical trials on Botox for the treatment of IC/BPS have reported promising therapeutic effects, including reduced bladder pain. Additionally, the therapeutic duration was found to be longer with repeated Botox injections than with a single injection. However, the use of Botox for IC/BPS has not been approved. This paper reviews the recent advances in intravesical Botox treatment for OAB and IC/BPS.

Effect of intravesical botulinum toxin injection on symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia in a patient with chronic spinal cord injury: a case report

Context: There are few treatment options for managing autonomic dysreflexia in patients with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). According to some studies, intravesical botulinum toxin for SCI patients with autonomic dysreflexia has a preventive effect on symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia. However, the usefulness of an intravesical botulinum toxin injection has never been reported for autonomic dysreflexia in an adult patient with chronic cervical SCI, although there has been for one pediatric patient.Findings: A 62-year-old man with chronic cervical SCI had neurogenic bladder due to C6-7 SCI since sustaining a fall in 1980. He presented with an intermittent headache and severe hypertension because of persistent autonomic dysreflexia. His symptoms did not improve with conservative management, and he could not undergo an operation to resect the lung cancer because of his uncontrolled blood pressure. To control his fluctuating blood pressure, he was taken to an operating room to receive an intravesical botulinum toxin injection for refractory bladder spasms. Subsequently, his blood pressure was controlled, and then the lung mass could be surgically removed. His improved condition lasted for more than 6 months.Conclusion: This case suggests that botulinum toxin is a logical treatment option for autonomic dysreflexia as well as neurogenic detrusor overactivity in patients with chronic SCI. Dedicated research is warranted to assess the efficacy of an intravesical botulinum toxin injection, as it was used successfully to stop the symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia in our patient.

Promise and the Pharmacological Mechanism of Botulinum Toxin A in Chronic Prostatitis Syndrome

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/ CPPS) has a negative impact on the quality of life, and its etiology still remains unknown. Although many treatment protocols have been evaluated in CP/CPPS, the outcomes have usually been disappointing. Botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A), produced from Clostridium botulinum, has been widely used to lower urinary tract dysfunctions such as detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, refractory overactive bladder, interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndromes, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and CP/ CPPS in urology. Here, we review the published evidence from animal models to clinical studies for inferring the mechanism of action underlying the therapeutic efficacy of BoNT in CP/CPPS. Animal studies demonstrated that BoNT-A, a potent inhibitor of neuroexocytosis, impacts the release of sensory neurotransmitters and inflammatory mediators. This pharmacological action of BoNT-A showed promise of relieving the pain of CP/CPPS in placebo-controlled and open-label BoNT-A and has the potential to serve as an adjunct treatment for achieving better treatment outcomes in CP/CPPS patients.

Clinical outcomes of botulinum toxin A management for neurogenic detrusor overactivity: meta-analysis

The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) treatment in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity. PUBMED, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were identified on 13 May 2017 to identify relevant randomized controlled trials. All data obtained were analyzed using Stata 12.0. Five randomized controlled trials were included in this study. Compared to placebo, the BTX-A groups had significantly fewer urinary incontinence (UI) episodes per day and per week (BTX-A with 300 U for frequency of UI per day at week 2, mean difference (MD): −1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.89 to −0.37; 200 U; BTX-A with 300 U for frequency of UI per week at week 6, MD: −11.42, 95% CI: −13.91 to −8.93; BTX-A with 200 U for frequency of UI per week at week 6, MD: −10.72, 95% CI: −13.40 to −8.04), increased in maximum cystometric capacity at week 6 (BTX-A with 300 U, MD: 154.88, 95% CI: 133.92–175.84; BTX-A with 200 U, MD: 141.30, 95% CI: 121.28–161.33), decreased maximum detrusor pressure at week 6 (BTX-A with 300 U, MD: −31.72, 95% CI: −37.69 to −25.75; BTX-A with 200 U, MD: −33.47, 95% CI: −39.20 to −27.73). For adverse effects, BTX-A was often associated with more complications and urinary tract infections (BTX-A with 300 U: relative risk (RR):1.42, 95% CI: 1.15–1.76; BTX-A with 200 U: RR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.11–1.82). This meta-analysis suggests that treatment with BTX-A is effective and safe for neurogenic detrusor overactivity, and recommends using BTX-A with 300 U or with 200 U, as suitable dosage.

Safety of Intradetrusor OnabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) Injection in the Asymptomatic Patient With a Positive Urine Dip

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate differences in adverse events (AE) in asymptomatic patients with a positive urine dip (UD) at time of intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) injection vsthose with a defined negative UD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All intradetrusor BTX-A injections were retrospectively reviewed at a single institution between 2016 and 2018. Exclusion criteria included an indwelling catheter, recent positive urine culture, recent antibiotic course, or absence of UD on the day of injection. A positive UD was defined using 7 different definitions with varying combinations of any level of positive blood, leukocyte esterase, or nitrite. Negative UDs were defined those excluded from the positive UD group. We compared multiple positive UD-defined groups to their respective negative UD cohorts with regards to outcomes and demographics.

RESULTS

A total of 212 patients underwent 335 cycles of BTX-A injections over a 2-year period. The average age was 65 years (range: 21-90). The majority received 100 units (73%) of BTX-A for a non-neurogenic diagnosis (73%). The overall rate of AEs, urinary tract infection, and urinary retention was 14.6%, 9%, and 3%, respectively. In all groups, the most common AE was urinary tract infection followed by urinary retention. There were no major Clavien-Dindo-defined complications. There was no statistically significant difference in the total or categorical AE rates between positive and negative UD groups using all 7 definitions of a positive UD (P = .05-1.0).

CONCLUSION

These data do not support the practice of obtaining a preprocedure UD in asymptomatic patients undergoing intradetrusor BTX-A injection for any indication; test results are unable to predict outcomes or AEs.

Intradetrusor injection of botulinum toxin A in children: a 10-year single centre experience

PURPOSE

We evaluated the efficacy and safety outcomes of endoscopic intradetrusor botulinum toxin A (BTA) injections for the treatment of children with neuropathic bladder (NB) and non-neuropathic bladder (NNB) with or without detrusor overactivity in a single centre with a retrospective analysis.

METHODS

For the period 2006-2015, children who received BTA in our hospital were analysed. They were divided into group 1, those with underlying NB and group 2, those without a clear neuropathic cause of symptoms (NNB). Data are given as percentages or medians (interquartile range).

RESULTS

Over the study period, 52 children (28 boys, 54%) received BTA, 28 in group 1 (54%; 17 (61%) boys) and 24 in group 2 (46%; 11 (46%) boys). Age at first injection was 11.8 (9.5-14.4) years. After initial injection, 40 (77%) reported symptomatic improvement, 17 (43%) becoming dry. There was no significant difference in response to initial injection between groups (p = 0.11). Duration of improvement after first injection was 7 (5.8-14) months. Twenty-five (48%) had further injections, of whom 3 (12%) were initial non-responders. Ongoing improvement was reported in 20 (80%), 11 (44%) of whom were dry. There was no significant difference in overall response to injections between groups (p = 0.11). Of the 11 non-responders, none (0/3) improved after subsequent injection and 3 (27%) subsequently underwent major urological surgery. Of the 40 who responded, 2 (5%) underwent major surgery.

CONCLUSION

BTA injection produced symptomatic improvement in 77% of our study population, with no significant differences in response between NB and NNB groups. In 95% of those who improved, major urinary tract procedures were avoided during the period studied. None of the initial non-responders improved after subsequent BTA injection. BTA injection is effective and reliable in the management of children with NB and NNB refractory to medical therapy.

The protection of acute spinal cord injury by subarachnoid space injection of Danshen in animal models

CONTEXT/OBJECTIVE

Following acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) in rabbits, subarachnoid space injection of Danshen was performed to protect the neurological damage. In this study, we established rabbit models of spinal cord injury using a modified Allen's method.

DESIGN

After the operation introducing the injuries, the rabbits were randomized into two different groups, control group (normal saline, NS) and Danshen, a component extracted from Chinese herb, treatment group. Each rabbit was supplied with either the drug or placebo at 0.3 ml/kg each day through subarachnoid cavity.

SETTING

Rabbit model of acute spinal cord injury were used for the response to Danshen treatment.

PARTICIPANTS

Total 48 Chinese rabbits aged four∼ five months old provided by Experimental Animal Center of Hubei Province were used for this study.

INTERVENTIONS

Danshen drug or placebo was administered via a silicon tube embedded under the spinal dura mater to administer the drugs into subarachnoid cavity.

OUTCOME MEASURES

After the treatment, damage indicators including cell apoptosis, morphological changes and oxidative damages were assessed.

RESULTS

We found out that cell apoptosis was decreased after Danshen injection as determined by downregulation of apoptosis index (AI) by TUNEL analysis as well as propidium iodide (PI) percentage by FACS analysis. In the meanwhile, we observed cells after the treatment have increased numbers of BCL-2 positive cells, this indicated the antiapoptotic gene expression is increased after Danshen treatment. When we check the oxidative damage indicators, we found superoxide dismutase (SOD) was increased and malondiadehyde (MDA) levels were decreased after the treatment.

CONCLUSION

Danshen can protect ASCI through inhibition of oxidative damage in the injured cells and thus reduce the subsequent cell apoptosis in the spinal.

Citation analysis of the most influential articles on traumatic spinal cord injury

Objective: We conducted a citation analysis in order to catalog and pay tribute to the 100 most influential clinical research articles in traumatic spinal cord injury.Design: The Thomson Reuters Web of Science was searched in a two-step process without time period limitations. Review articles were excluded. In the first stage of data extraction, a Boolean query was used to identify the top 100 most cited clinical papers on traumatic spinal cord injury. One hundred and seven keywords were manually chosen and extracted from titles and abstracts. A second Boolean query used these keywords to broaden search results. The top 100 articles from this second stage search comprised the final list.Outcome Measures: For each article, measures evaluated were number of citations, average number of citations per year, time elapsed before first citation, and time elapsed until the year in which each article received its respective highest number of citations in a one-year period.Results: 119,991 articles were found in the second stage search. The top 100 most cited articles meeting inclusion criteria were identified within the first 2,104 results. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation was the most represented journal, with 20 of the top 100 articles. The top 100 list averaged 255 citations per article. The most highly cited article was the NASCIS 2 trial by Bracken et al., cited 1500 times, which investigated the efficacy of methylprednisolone or naloxone for spinal cord injury.Conclusion: Clinical research in traumatic spinal cord injury has grown over time, expanding to encompass rehabilitation and experimental therapies in addition to acute management trials. The list may serve as an archive and reference for further studies in this field.

Medical Management of Neurogenic Bladder for Children and Adults: A Review

Neurogenic bladder is a chronic condition affecting patients of all ages with significant medical and quality of life implications. Goals of treatment consist of protection of the upper urinary tract and promotion of reliable urinary continence. Successful management involves medications and most often bladder drainage via clean intermittent catheterization. This article reviews current literature on medical management to achieve goals of treatment.

Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) challenges on behalf of the collaborative research in pelvic surgery consortium (CoRPS): managing complicated cases series 2: management of urinary incontinence in a neurogenic patient

Discussion and management of incontinence in a patient with spina bifida by four international experts followed by a literature review.

Quo Vadis Botulinum Toxin: Normative Constraints and Quality of Life for Patients With Idiopathic OAB?

Background: Idiopathic overactive bladder (iOAB), with or without urge incontinence (UI), has significant psychosocial effects on patients' quality of life (QoL). The first choice of treatment for iOAB is anticholinergics and, alternatively, the β-3-adrenoceptor agonist mirabegron. However, systemic side effects and contraindications should be considered for both medications.

Objective: We report the efficacy, safety and effects on QoL of botulinum toxin therapy (onabotulinum toxin type A, BOTOX®, Allergan) among patients with iOAB ± UI.

Patients and Methods: Between 2005 and 2013, 51 patients were treated with onabotulinum toxin A (100 units). The inclusion criteria were the presence of confirmed iOAB ± UI with previous use of anticholinergic medication. Micturition frequency, pad count, postvoid residual volume and QoL were evaluated using two validated questionnaires [the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 (CSQ-8) and the King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ)]. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 24.0 (p < 0.05).

Results: After botulinum toxin injection, a significant improvement in iOAB ± UI symptoms was observed. The micturition frequency decreased from 10.4 ± 0.5 to 5.2 ± 0.4 micturitions per day (p = 0.026), and the pad count decreased from 3.6 ± 1.0 to 1.2 ± 0.3 pads per day (p = 0.033). Anticholinergics were not used during the administration of botulinum toxin therapy. Complications and postoperative need for intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) were not observed. Overall, 72 and 24% of patients reported being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the treatment. Additionally, 66% of patients would choose botulinum toxin again for the treatment of iOAB.

Conclusion: Botulinum toxin therapy is an efficient, safe, and life-improving treatment for iOAB.

Botulinum Toxin Use in Neurourology

The use of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) has revolutionized the treatment of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) over the past three decades. Initially, it was used as a sphincteric injection for detrusor sphincter dyssynergia but now is used mostly as intradetrusor injection to treat neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). Its use is supported by high-level-of-evidence studies and it has become the gold-standard treatment for patients with NDO refractory to anticholinergics. Several novelties have emerged in the use of BTX-A in neurourology over the past few years. Although onabotulinumtoxinA (BOTOX^®, Allergan, Inc., Irvine, CA) remains the only BTX-A for which use is supported by large, multicenter, randomized, controlled trials (RCT), and is therefore the only one to be licensed in the United States and Europe, a second BTX-A, abobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport^®, Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals, Basking Ridge, NJ), is also supported by high-level-of-evidence studies. Other innovations in the use of BTX-A in neurourology during the past few years include the BTX switch (from abobotulinumtoxinA to onabotulinumtoxinA or the opposite) as a rescue option for primary or secondary failures of intradetrusor BTX-A injection and refinements in intradetrusor injection techniques (number of injection sites, injection into the trigone). There is also a growing interest in long-term failure of BTX-A for NDO and their management, and a possible new indication for urethral sphincter injections.

Ancillary benefits of bladder chemodenervation for SCI neurogenic bladder

Study design

Case series.

Objective

Bladder chemodenervation is effective in treating neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) in patients with neurogenic bladder due to spinal cord injury. Anecdotal reports also describe the improvement of non-bladder symptoms, specifically those related to autonomic dysreflexia (AD) and muscle spasticity. We conducted a study to further investigate this phenomenon.

Setting

USA, Urban Tertiary Care Center.

Methods

Twenty-one persons with SCI completed the study between March and December 2015. Mean age was 45 years (range 21-69). All were scheduled to undergo bladder chemodenervation with onabotulinumtoxinA 200 units to treat bothersome NDO refractory to oral medications. Each completed a questionnaire detailing symptoms unrelated to NDO immediately prior to the procedure, and again between 6 and 12 weeks after.

Results

All patients reported improvement in NDO symptoms following chemodenervation. Ten patients with prior symptoms of AD reported improvement in AD symptoms after injection. Seventeen patients reported skeletal muscle spasticity in the 3-month period before chemodenervation. In the follow up period, only 14 patients reported having muscle spasticity. In aggregate, 12 of 21 patients reported improvement of non-bladder symptomatology following chemodenervation.

Conclusions

Chemodenervation of the bladder in patients with SCI can provide ancillary benefits in addition to mitigation of lower urinary symptoms. The mechanism may be related to dampening the bladder's ability to initiate noxious reflex responses.

Antioxidant effect of human placenta hydrolysate against oxidative stress on muscle atrophy

Sarcopenia, which refers to the muscle loss that accompanies aging, is a complex neuromuscular disorder with a clinically high prevalence and mortality. Despite many efforts to protect against muscle weakness and muscle atrophy, the incidence of sarcopenia and its related permanent disabilities continue to increase. In this study, we found that treatment with human placental hydrolysate (hPH) significantly increased the viability (approximately 15%) of H₂ O₂ -stimulated C2C12 cells. Additionally, while H₂ O₂ -stimulated cells showed irregular morphology, hPH treatment restored their morphology to that of cells cultured under normal conditions. We further showed that hPH treatment effectively inhibited H₂ O₂ -induced cell death. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and Mstn expression induced by oxidative stress are closely associated with muscular dysfunction followed by atrophy. Exposure of C2C12 cells to H₂ O₂ induced abundant production of intracellular ROS, mitochondrial superoxide, and mitochondrial dysfunction as well as myostatin expression via nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling; these effects were attenuated by hPH. Additionally, hPH decreased mitochondria fission-related gene expression (Drp1 and BNIP3) and increased mitochondria biogenesis via the Sirt1/AMPK/PGC-1α pathway and autophagy regulation. In vivo studies revealed that hPH-mediated prevention of atrophy was achieved predominantly through regulation of myostatin and PGC-1α expression and autophagy. Taken together, our findings indicate that hPH is potentially protective against muscle atrophy and oxidative cell death.

TRPs in Tox: Involvement of Transient Receptor Potential-Channels in Chemical-Induced Organ Toxicity-A Structured Review

Chemicals can exhibit significant toxic properties. While for most compounds, unspecific cell damaging processes are assumed, a plethora of chemicals exhibit characteristic odors, suggesting a more specific interaction with the human body. During the last few years, G-protein-coupled receptors and especially chemosensory ion channels of the transient receptor potential family (TRP channels) were identified as defined targets for several chemicals. In some cases, TRP channels were suggested as being causal for toxicity. Therefore, these channels have moved into the spotlight of toxicological research. In this review, we screened available literature in PubMed that deals with the role of chemical-sensing TRP channels in specific organ systems. TRPA1, TRPM and TRPV channels were identified as essential chemosensors in the nervous system, the upper and lower airways, colon, pancreas, bladder, skin, the cardiovascular system, and the eyes. Regarding TRP channel subtypes, A1, M8, and V1 were found most frequently associated with toxicity. They are followed by V4, while other TRP channels (C1, C4, M5) are only less abundantly expressed in this context. Moreover, TRPA1, M8, V1 are co-expressed in most organs. This review summarizes organ-specific toxicological roles of TRP channels.

Intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections are significantly more efficacious than oral oxybutynin for treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity: results of a randomized, controlled, 24-week trial

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively compare the results of intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections and oral oxybutynin for urinary continence, urodynamic parameters and quality of life in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity due to spinal cord injury.

METHODS

Adult patients under intermittent catheterization were randomized 1:1 to receive one injection of onabotulinumtoxinA 300U or oxybutynin 5mg, per oris, three times/day. Primary study endpoint was change in urinary incontinence episodes/24 hours and secondary study endpoints were maximum cystometric capacity, maximum detrusor pressure, bladder compliance and quality of life before randomization and at week 24.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients participated in the trial. Significant improvements in urinary incontinence per 24 hours, all investigated urodynamic parameters and quality of life were observed in both groups. Compared with oral oxybutynin, onabotulinumtoxinA was significantly more efficacious for all parameters investigated. Non-response to treatment was higher for oral oxybutynin (23.5%) than onabotulinumtoxinA (11.8%). Dry mouth was the most common adverse in patients with oral oxybutynin (72%) and transient macroscopic hematuria in patients with onabotulinumtoxinA (28%). Only one patient with oral oxybutynin dropped out the study because of adverse effects.

CONCLUSION

The comparison of the two study drugs showed that onabotulinumtoxinA was significantly more efficacious than oral oxybutynin with regard to continence, urodynamic parameters and quality of life. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT:01477736.

Non-surgical urologic management of neurogenic bladder after spinal cord injury

PURPOSE

To review the available data on non-surgical management for neurogenic bladder in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). Before the introduction of urinary catheters and antibiotics, neurogenic bladder was one of the main culprits for death in those patients with SCI. Currently, the management of neurogenic bladder is focused in improving quality of life and preserving renal function.

METHODS

A literature review was performed and therapeutic management for neurogenic bladder was divided in six sections: (1) intermittent bladder catheterization; (2) indwelling catheters; (3) condom catheter drainage; (4) reflex voiding and bladder expression with Valsalva or Credé; (5) oral drug therapy of the spinal cord injured bladder; and (6) botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT).

RESULTS

Intermittent catheterization is recommended as the preferable method for management of neurogenic bladder in patients with SCI based on limited high-quality data. However, this may not be feasible or available to all and other alternative options include condom catheter drainage or indwelling catheters such as urethral catheters or suprapubic tube, reflex voiding, and bladder expression with Valsalva or Credé. Non-invasive medical therapies are the key to improve incontinence, urodynamic parameters, and quality of life in this population. Botulinum neurotoxin has revolutionized the management of neurogenic bladder in the last two decades decreasing the need for reconstruction or diversion.

CONCLUSION

The Joint SIU-ICUD (Société Internationale d'Urologie) (International Consultation on Urological Diseases) International Consultation reviewed the available presented data and provided specific conclusions and recommendations for each non-surgical urologic method to address neurogenic bladder after SCI.

Novel Applications of OnabotulinumtoxinA in Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction

OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) was first used to treat neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) 30 years ago. Recently, application of BoNT-A in LUTD have become more common since the approval of intravesical BoNT-A injection for patients with both overactive bladders (OAB) and neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) by regulatory agencies in many countries. Although unlicensed, BoNT-A has been recommended to treat patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) under different guidelines. BoNT-A delivery with liposome-encapsulation and gelation hydrogel intravesical instillation provided a potentially less invasive and more convenient form of application for patients with OAB or IC/BPS. BoNT-A injections into the urethral sphincter for spinal cord injury patients with detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia have been used for a long time. New evidence revealed that it could also be applied to patients with non-neurogenic dysfunctional voiding. Previous studies and meta-analyses suggest that BoNT-A injections for patients with benign prostate hyperplasia do not have a better therapeutic effect than placebo. However, new randomized and placebo-controlled trials revealed intraprostatic BoNT-A injection is superior to placebo in specific patients. A recent trial also showed intraprostatic BoNT-A injection could significantly reduce pain in patients with chronic prostatitis. Both careful selection of patients and prudent use of urodynamic evaluation results to confirm diagnoses are essential for successful outcomes of BoNT-A treatment for LUTD.

The Expanding Therapeutic Utility of Botulinum Neurotoxins

Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is a major therapeutic agent that is licensed in neurological indications, such as dystonia and spasticity. The BoNT family, which is produced in nature by clostridial bacteria, comprises several pharmacologically distinct proteins with distinct properties. In this review, we present an overview of the current therapeutic landscape and explore the diversity of BoNT proteins as future therapeutics. In recent years, novel indications have emerged in the fields of pain, migraine, overactive bladder, osteoarthritis, and wound healing. The study of biological effects distal to the injection site could provide future opportunities for disease-tailored BoNT therapies. However, there are some challenges in the pharmaceutical development of BoNTs, such as liquid and slow-release BoNT formulations; and, transdermal, transurothelial, and transepithelial delivery. Innovative approaches in the areas of formulation and delivery, together with highly sensitive analytical tools, will be key for the success of next generation BoNT clinical products.

Changes in Management of Poorly Compliant Bladder in Botulinum Toxin A Era

Bladder compliance is a measure of distensibility. Maladies such as myelodysplasia, myelomeningocele, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and obstructive uropathy are known to decrease bladder compliance. Decrease in bladder compliance is a characteristic of neurogenic bladders. The pathophysiology of bladder compliance is complex but ultimately leads to high pressure during filling and storage phases. These high pressures lead to renal impairment, incontinence, and recurrent urinary tract infections. This review presents management of poorly compliant bladders with onabotulinumtoxinA.

Total endoscopic and anal irrigation management approach to noncompliant neuropathic bladder and bowel in children: A long-term follow-up

Purpose:

To evaluate the long-term efficacy and durability of combined intradetrusor botulinum-A toxin (BTX-A), endoscopic treatment of vesicouerteral reflux and anal irrigation for stool incontinence (SI) via a total endoscopic and anal irrigation management (TEAM^®) approach in patients with myelomeningocele and neuropathic bladder and bowel who did not respond to conservative measures.

Materials and Methods:

Fourteen myelomeningocele patients with at least 3 years follow-up were included in the study. All patients have urinary and SI not responded to conservative management. All patients received a cystoscopic intradetrusor injection of 12 U/kg (maximum 300 U) BTX-A. There was vesicoureteral reflux in 22 ureters, and a Deflux^® injection was completed during the same procedure. SI was managed using trans-anal irrigation, either with a fleet enema or Peristeen^® system regularly.

Results:

After at least 3 years of follow-up, mean maximum bladder capacity increased significantly from 78 ± 36 ml to 200 ± 76 ml (P < 0.0001) and the maximum detrusor pressure decreased from 56 ± 12 cm H₂O to 29 ± 7 cm H₂O (P < 0.001). Twenty-one refluxing ureters (95%) showed complete resolution and one persisted. Ten patients (72%) achieved complete dryness between catheterizations. Four patients (28%) went for augmentation cystoplasty, due to progressive hydronephrosis and/or persistent urinary incontinence. Thirteen patients achieved complete stool continence.

Conclusions:

Over long-term follow-up, major reconstruction surgery can be avoidable or delayable; the TEAM^® approach is a minimally invasive, safe, simple, and effective way to achieve upper urinary tract protection and provide urinary and stool continence.

Long-term response of different Botulinum toxins in refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity due to spinal cord injury

Purpose

To assess the response in spinal cord injured patients alternatively treated with different types and dosages of Botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) over 15 years.

Material and methods

Patients who underwent first BoNT/A from 1999-2001 and practiced intermittent catheterization were included. Baseline 3-day bladder diary (BD) and urodynamics were collected. BoNT/A failure was defined when patients asked for re-injection ≤ 3 months post-treatment. Criteria for re-injection was at least one daily episode of urinary incontinence at BD. Before re-injection, patients were asked if they had reached 6 months of dryness without antimuscarinics (YES response).

Results

Overall, 32/60 (53.4%) “No failure” (NF) group; 16 (26.6%) “occasional failure” (OF) and 12 (20%) “consecutive failure” (CF) were included. A total of 822 BoNT/A infiltrations were performed. The mean interval from previous injection to treatment re-scheduling was 8 months. No significant differences between treatments were found within the three groups (p>0.05). The percentage of YES responses increased from 19% (AboBoNT/A 500IU) to 29 % (OnaBoNT/A 300IU) in NF, and from 18% (AboBoNT/A 500IU) to 25% (OnaBoNT/A 300IU) for OF. Five NF cases (15.6%) maintained 6 months of dryness after each injection. Among the baseline variables, only low compliance (< 20mL/cmH₂O) was found as predictor for failure (p=0.006).

Conclusions

Long term BoNT/A for NDO did not increase failures, independent of the types of treatments and switching. Definition of failure and other criteria for continuing repetitive BoNT/A treatment is mandatory. CF was predictable for no response in earlier follow-up.

Is there any Relationship Between Bladder Trabeculation and Efficacy and Safety of Intravesical Botulinum Toxin A Injection in Refractory Idiopathic Overactive Bladder Women?

Background:

Intradetrusor injection of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) might serve as a minimally invasive substitute in patients with refractory idiopathic overactive bladder (RIOAB). The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes related to two different doses of abo-BTX-A (AboBTX-A) in patients with RIOAB.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective clinical trial was performed on 55 women with RIOAB. After determination of trabeculation grade, 300 (no or mild) or 500 (moderate or severe) unit of AboBTX-A (Dysport) was intravesicaly injected. Before 1, 3, and 6 months after intervention, lower urinary tract symptoms during 24 h were recorded.

Results:

Of the study population, 62% had severe bladder trabeculation. The mean duration of overactive bladder (OAB) was 1.76 versus 5.85 years, for no or mild versus severe trabeculation, respectively. After injections of 300- and 500-unit dosage, there were 19% and 26% early complications such as urinary retention. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in OAB score after 1 month (P < 0.001) and duration of OAB symptoms, over three follow-up times (P < 0.001). The mean preinjection OAB scores between patients with and without recurrence were statistically significant (29.36 vs. 25.07; P < 0.03). Urinary tract infection as a late complication was distinguished in four patients.

Conclusion:

In RIOAB, by adjusted dosage of AboBTX-A related to the grade of bladder trabeculation, in addition to maintain efficacy, consequent complications might not be affected by dosage and the drug dosage could be increased to nearly 60% with less concern associated to complication

What is the true catheterization rate after intravesical onabotulinumtoxinA injection?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

A known side effect of intravesical onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox®) injection for overactive bladder (OAB) is urinary retention requiring clean intermittent catheterization (CIC), the fear of which deters patients from choosing this therapy. In clinical practice, patients with an elevated postvoid residual (PVR) are often managed by observation only, providing they do not have subjective complaints or contraindications. We sought to determine the true rate of urinary retention requiring CIC in clinical practice.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed over a 3-year period of patients who received 100 units of intravesical onabotulinumtoxinA for the treatment of OAB. Patients were seen 2 weeks after the procedure to measure PVR. CIC was initiated in patients with a PVR ≥350 ml and in those with subjective voiding difficulty or acute retention.

RESULTS

A total of 187 injections were performed on 99 female patients. CIC was required following three injections (1.6%): for acute retention in two patients and subjective voiding difficulty in one patient with a PVR of 353 ml. Following 12 injections, the patient had a PVR of ≥350 ml, and following 29 injections, the patient had a PVR of >200 but <350 ml without symptoms. CIC was not initiated in these 41 patients. None of these patients experienced subsequent retention, and all showed resolution of their elevated PVR within 8 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

In our series of 187 intravesical injections for OAB, the rate of postprocedure urinary retention requiring catheterization was only 1.6%. This low rate can be attributed to less rigorous criteria for CIC initiation than those applied in previous studies. While important to counsel patients on the risk of retention, patients can be reassured that the actual rate of CIC is low.

Impact of bladder dysfunction in the management of post radical prostatectomy stress urinary incontinence-a review

Bladder dysfunction is a relatively common urodynamic finding post radical prostatectomy (RP). It can be the sole cause of post prostatectomy incontinence (PPI) or may be found in association with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive review of the diagnosis and different treatments of post RP bladder dysfunction. A comprehensive literature review using medical search engines was performed. The search included a combination of the following terms, PPI, detrusor overactivity (DO), detrusor underactivity (DU), impaired compliance, anticholinergic, onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox^®) and sacral neuromodulation (SNM). Definitions, general overview and management options were extracted from the relevant medical literature. DO, DU and impaired compliance are common and may occur alone or in combination with SUI. In some patients the conditions exist pre RP, in others they arise due to denervation and surgical changes. DO can be treated with anticholinergics, Botox^® and SNM. DO may need to be treated before SUI surgery. DU may be a contraindication to male sling surgery as some patients may go into urinary retention. Severely impaired bladder compliance may be a contraindication to SUI surgery as the upper tracts may be at risk. Each individual dysfunction may affect the outcome of PPI treatments and clinicians should be alert to managing bladder dysfunction in PPI patients.

Botulinum Neurotoxins: Biology, Pharmacology, and Toxicology

The study of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT) is rapidly progressing in many aspects. Novel BoNTs are being discovered owing to next generation sequencing, but their biologic and pharmacological properties remain largely unknown. The molecular structure of the large protein complexes that the toxin forms with accessory proteins, which are included in some BoNT type A1 and B1 pharmacological preparations, have been determined. By far the largest effort has been dedicated to the testing and validation of BoNTs as therapeutic agents in an ever increasing number of applications, including pain therapy. BoNT type A1 has been also exploited in a variety of cosmetic treatments, alone or in combination with other agents, and this specific market has reached the size of the one dedicated to the treatment of medical syndromes. The pharmacological properties and mode of action of BoNTs have shed light on general principles of neuronal transport and protein-protein interactions and are stimulating basic science studies. Moreover, the wide array of BoNTs discovered and to be discovered and the production of recombinant BoNTs endowed with specific properties suggest novel uses in therapeutics with increasing disease/symptom specifity. These recent developments are reviewed here to provide an updated picture of the biologic mechanism of action of BoNTs, of their increasing use in pharmacology and in cosmetics, and of their toxicology.

Autonomic dysreflexia after spinal cord injury: Systemic pathophysiology and methods of management

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) has widespread physiological effects beyond the disruption of sensory and motor function, notably the loss of normal autonomic and cardiovascular control. Injury at or above the sixth thoracic spinal cord segment segregates critical spinal sympathetic neurons from supraspinal modulation which can result in a syndrome known as autonomic dysreflexia (AD). AD is defined as episodic hypertension and concomitant baroreflex-mediated bradycardia initiated by unmodulated sympathetic reflexes in the decentralized cord. This condition is often triggered by noxious yet unperceived visceral or somatic stimuli below the injury level and if severe enough can require immediate medical attention. Herein, we review the pathophysiological mechanisms germane to the development of AD, including maladaptive plasticity of neural circuits mediating abnormal sympathetic reflexes and hypersensitization of peripheral vasculature that collectively contribute to abnormal hemodynamics after SCI. Further, we discuss the systemic effects of recurrent AD and pharmacological treatments used to manage such episodes. Contemporary research avenues are then presented to better understand the relative contributions of underlying mechanisms and to elucidate the effects of recurring AD on cardiovascular and immune functions for developing more targeted and effective treatments to attenuate the development of this insidious syndrome following high-level SCI.

Efficacy and Adverse Events Associated With Use of OnabotulinumtoxinA for Treatment of Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity: A Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

OnabotulinumtoxinA is used widely for the treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess its efficacy and safety for neurogenic detrusor overactivity treatment.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed to identify all published randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of onabotulinumtoxinA for neurogenic detrusor overactivity treatment. MEDLINE, Embase, and the CENTRAL were employed. Reference lists of retrieved studies were reviewed carefully.

RESULTS

Six publications involving 871 patients, which compared onabotulinumtoxinA with a placebo were analyzed. Efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment was shown as a reduction of the mean number of urinary incontinence episodes per day (mean difference, -1.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.70 to -1.12; P<0.00001), maximum cystometric capacity (135.48; 95% CI, 118.22-152.75; P<0.00001), and maximum detrusor pressure (-32.98; 95% CI, -37.33 to -28.62; P<0.00001). Assessment of adverse events revealed that complications due to onabotulinumtoxinA injection were localized primarily to the urinary tract.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggests that onabotulinumtoxinA is an effective treatment for neurogenic detrusor overactivity with localized advent events.

Treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients: Review of the literature and current guidelines

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a unique neurological disease with a broad spectrum of clinical presentations that are time- and disease course-related. Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are highly prevalent in this patient population, with approximately 90% showing some degree of voiding dysfunction and/or incontinence 6-8 years after the initial MS diagnosis. Major therapeutic goals include quality of life improvement and the avoidance of urological complications Owing to the wide divergence of clinical symptoms and disease course, evaluation and treatment differ between patients. Treatment must be customized for each patient based on disease phase, patient independence, manual dexterity, social support, and other medical- or MS-related issues. Ablative or irreversible therapies are indicated only when the disease course is stable. In most cases of "safe" bladder, behavioural treatment is considered first-line defense. Antimuscarinic drugs, alone or in combination with intermittent self-catheterization, are currently the mainstay of conservative treatment, and several other medications may help in specific disease conditions. Second-line treatment includes botulinum toxin A injection, neuromodulation, indwelling catheters, and surgery in well-selected cases.