Complementary and Integrative Management of Pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Implemented within an Interprofessional Clinic

Efficacy of Biofeedback in Paediatric Urology Patients: A Single Centre Experience

AIM OF THE STUDY

Biofeedback assisted pelvic floor muscle training is an underutilised nonpharmacological treatment in paediatric urology. We reviewed all patients who underwent a course of treatment at our centre to evaluate its efficacy.

METHODS

All patients who underwent a full cycle of biofeedback in the paediatric urology department from 2016 to 2023 were identified. Demographics and outcomes following treatment were accessed.

RESULTS

42 patients (28 female) were identified who underwent 8 one-hour sessions on a weekly basis constituted a completed cycle of treatment. Patients were identified for treatment as per local lower urinary tract symptom guidelines and following discussion in a fortnightly urology MDT and including diagnoses of overactive bladder, dysfunctional voiding, and giggle incontinence. Outcomes were measured as successful 29% (continence, normal postvoid residuals, clean intermittent catherization discontinued), partially successful 19% (reduced wetting, abnormal post void residuals, ongoing CIC) and unsuccessful 52% (no change for patient). Age at time of treatment affected likelihood of success: <9 years, 0% success; ≥9 years, 57% [p < 0.05]. There was no significant difference in success for 9-11 years [60%] vs >11 years [56%].

CONCLUSIONS

Biofeedback has shown success with improvement in symptoms in 48% of patients (complete or partial), which increases to 57% success in ≥9 years group. We would advocate its use in these difficult to manage patients with LUTS.