Exploring lifelong overactive bladder: Transitions, evidence, and clinical implications; A modified Delphi process.

INTRODUCTION: Overactive bladder (OAB) is a prevalent urological condition characterized by urinary urgency, with or without urgency urinary incontinence, accompanied by increased daytime frequency and nocturia. However, the current definition of OAB lacks a specified time frame, hindering our understanding of the temporal aspects and transitions that occur within the OAB spectrum. METHODS: A modified Delphi study was conducted in three rounds, involving a panel of international experts in functional urology, urogynaecology, geriatrics, transitional medicine, and pediatric urology. The study took place between February 2023 and June 2023 and employed two sequential rounds of online surveys, followed by a final hybrid group discussion session in June 2023. RESULTS: The Delphi process resulted in a consensus definition of lifelong OAB as a persistent and continuous condition that may manifest differently from birth and evolve over time, with varying levels of clinical perception. The course of its progression is influenced by transition periods and modifying factors, mainly anatomical, hormonal, and psychosocial/stressors. Three main transition periods were identified: achievement of daytime continence, adulthood to elderly, and transition to frail elderly. The panel also considered the therapeutic and diagnostic implications of lifelong OAB, as well as future research prospects in terms of importance and feasibility. CONCLUSIONS: Future longitudinal research is needed to develop this concept and further identify transitions and temporal dynamics.

Can we use machine learning to improve the interpretation and application of urodynamic data?: ICI-RS 2023.

INTRODUCTION: A "Think Tank" at the International Consultation on Incontinence-Research Society meeting held in Bristol, United Kingdom in June 2023 considered the progress and promise of machine learning (ML) applied to urodynamic data. METHODS: Examples of the use of ML applied to data from uroflowmetry, pressure flow studies and imaging were presented. The advantages and limitations of ML were considered. Recommendations made during the subsequent debate for research studies were recorded. RESULTS: ML analysis holds great promise for the kind of data generated in urodynamic studies. To date, ML techniques have not yet achieved sufficient accuracy for routine diagnostic application. Potential approaches that can improve the use of ML were agreed and research questions were proposed. CONCLUSIONS: ML is well suited to the analysis of urodynamic data, but results to date have not achieved clinical utility. It is considered likely that further research can improve the analysis of the large, multifactorial data sets generated by urodynamic clinics, and improve to some extent data pattern recognition that is currently subject to observer error and artefactual noise.

Development of a questionnaire set to evaluate adaptations to COVID era: The ICS TURNOVER project (Transition of fUnctional uRology to New COVID ERa).

OBJECTIVES: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a massive cutdown in outpatient urological investigations, procedures, and interventions. Female and functional urology (FFU) has been probably the most affected subspecialty in urology. Several scientific societies have published guidelines to manage this new situation, providing general recommendations. The aim of this study was to devise a robust questionnaire covering every different aspect of FFU to obtain recommendations on COVID-19 adaptations. METHODS: Delphi methodology was adapted to devise the survey questionnaires for male/female lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), pelvic organ prolapse (POP), chronic pelvic pain (CPP), and neuro-urological disease. Content validity, face validity, and internal consistence were assessed to establish the final questionnaire. This study was ethically approved by the Local Research Ethics Committee. RESULTS: A total 97, 59, 79, 85, and 84 items for female and male LUTS, POPs, CPP, and neuro-urology respectively were approved by the participants. Content validity over 0.70 was obtained which seemed reasonable content validity scores. Internal consistency obtains values of Cronbach's alpha was between 0.70 and 0.90 which was acceptable. CONCLUSIONS: The collective wisdom obtained through a global survey using validated questionnaires covering every different aspect of FFU patient management is necessary. We have developed a robust and validated tool consisting of five questionnaires covering the most prevalent pathologies in FFU.

Longer is better than shorter: The added value of the seven-day pad test in the post-radical prostatectomy urinary incontinence.

AIMS: To investigate the feasibility and reliability of the seven-day pad test (7DPT), the correlation between 7DPT and 24-hour pad test (24HPT), and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) questionnaire, and the different categorization by the severity of each pad test. Pad weighting tests have been recommended in the evaluation of post-radical prostatectomy urinary incontinence severity, being considered the 24HPT gold standard. Some authors consider that the longer the testing, the better assessment. We propose a self-filled pad weight, the 7DPT. METHODS: A prospective study of incontinent male patients after radical prostatectomy. We carried out the study in two phases. All patients underwent urodynamic study. The first phase evaluated the feasibility and reliability of 7DPT. The second evaluated the correlation between 7DPT, 24HPT, and ICIQ-SF questionnaire in a larger sample. RESULTS: First phase: 32 patients were recruited. Test-retest reliability was excellent, with good agreement between mean 7DPT and 24HPT. The number of pads and mean 7DPT showed a good correlation. Second phase: 72 patients were screened, 51 (71%) met inclusion criteria. Mean 7DPT and 24HPT showed a strong association. Mean 7DPT and 24HPT correlated moderately with ICIQ-SF score. 7DPT and 24HPT agreement with ICIQ-SF groups was slight. As 7DPT captures better days with maximum urinary leakage, up to 12 patients would have been misclassified according to 24HPT (number need to treat for 7DPT was seven). CONCLUSIONS: 7DPT is a feasible and reliable tool to evaluate post-radical prostatectomy urinary incontinence, with a strong correlation with the 24HPT and moderate with the ICIQ-SF.

Female neurogenic stress urinary incontinence.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this article is to look into recent updates on the management of neurogenic stress urinary incontinence (NSUI) in adult females. RECENT FINDINGS: Recently, a small number of studies have investigated different surgical modalities in treatment of NSUI in adult females including artificial urinary sphincter (AUS), suburethral tapes (SUT) and adjustable slings and urethral bulking agents. Up to 70% of neurogenic patients who received AUS implants are continent and have not required surgical revision over a 20-year follow-up period. However, the risk for explantation of AUS may be twice as high in neurogenic patients compared with nonneurogenic patients. SUT have success and improvement in quality of life rates of up to 52 and 68%, respectively. However, complications may be as high as 24%. Early data on adjustable slings may suggest up to 80% continence with low complication rates. SUMMARY: AUS can provide satisfactory continence levels with acceptable rates of revision and explantation. SUT are effective but more than half of patients may require additional procedures. Adjustable slings could be a promising option. Further high-quality studies with careful attention to methodology and standardization of both definitions used and outcome reporting are required to help us reach safe conclusions.

Can radiation-induced lower urinary tract disease be ameliorated in patients treated for pelvic organ cancer: ICI-RS 2019?

AIMS: This article reviews the clinical outcomes and basic science related to negative effects of radiotherapy (RT) on the lower urinary tract (LUT) when used to treat pelvic malignancies. METHODS: The topic was discussed at the 2019 meeting of the International Consultation on Incontinence-Research Society during a "think tank" session and is summarized in the present article. RESULTS: RT is associated with adverse effects on the LUT, which may occur during treatment or which can develop over decades posttreatment. Here, we summarize the incidence and extent of clinical symptoms associated with several modes of delivery of RT. RT impact on normal tissues including urethra, bladder, and ureters is discussed, and the underlying biology is examined. We discuss innovative in vivo methodologies to mimic RT in the laboratory and their potential use in the elucidation of mechanisms underlying radiation-associated pathophysiology. Finally, emerging questions that need to be addressed through further research are proposed. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that RT-induced negative effects on the LUT represent a significant clinical problem. Although this has been reduced with improved methods of delivery to spare normal tissue, we need to (a) discover better approaches to protect normal tissue and (b) develop effective treatments to reverse radiation damage.

Should we routinely assess psychological morbidities in idiopathic lower urinary tract dysfunction: ICI-RS 2019?

AIMS: Psychological morbidities play a major role in idiopathic lower urinary tract dysfunction (iLUTD). The aim of the Think Tank (TT) was to discuss the relevance of psychological morbidities in idiopathic LUTD over the life span, including overactive bladder (OAB) or dysfunctional voiding (DV) and methods of assessment. METHODS: The paper is based on a selective review of the literature and in-depth discussions, leading to research recommendations regarding the assessment of psychological morbidities in iLUTD on children and adults held during the TT of the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society in 2019. RESULTS: Psychological comorbidities affect the health behaviors and treatment outcomes in patients with iLUTD. Both clinically relevant comorbid mental disorders, as well as subclinical psychological symptoms have a major impact and negatively influence incontinence treatment. Research is needed to elucidate mechanisms underlying iLUTD and psychological comorbidities. Clinical studies are needed to determine how perception generation and cognition impacts on the relationship of urinary perceptions, symptoms, and objective urodynamic function. Due to high psychological comorbidity rates, screening with validated, generic questionnaires for emotional and behavioral disorders in children with nocturnal enuresis, daytime urinary incontinence, and fecal incontinence is recommended. Brief screening is recommended for all adults with iLUTD, especially with OAB and DV, who are refractory to treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Due to the high rate and relevance in clinical practice, screening for psychological comorbidities is recommended for all age groups. The research recommendations of this TT may be followed to improve the assessment of psychological morbidities in iLUTD.

What developments are needed to achieve less-invasive urodynamics? ICI-RS 2019.

AIMS: To assess the state of technologies for urodynamics that are less invasive than standard cystometry and pressure-flow studies and to suggest areas needing research to improve this. METHODS: A summary of a Think Tank debate held at the 2019 meeting of the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society is provided, with subsequent analysis by the authors. Less-invasive techniques were summarized, classified by method, and possible developments considered. Discussions and recommendations were summarized by the co-chairs and edited into the form of this paper by all authors. RESULTS: There is a full spectrum of technologies available for less-invasive assessment, ranging from simple uroflowmetry through imaging techniques to emerging complex technologies. Less-invasive diagnostics will not necessarily need to replace diagnosis by, or even provide the same level of diagnostic accuracy as, invasive urodynamics. Rather than aiming for a technique that is merely less invasive, the priority is to develop methods that are either as accurate as current invasive methods, or spare patients from the necessity of invasive methods by improving early triaging. CONCLUSIONS: Technologies offering less-invasive urodynamic measurement of specific elements of function can be potentially beneficial. Less-invasive techniques may sometimes be useful as an adjunct to invasive urodynamics. The potential for current less-invasive tests to completely replace invasive urodynamic testing is considered, however, to be low. Less-invasive techniques must, therefore, be tested as screening/triaging tools, with the aim to spare some patients from invasive urodynamics early in the treatment pathway.

Consensus document on the multidisciplinary management of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis.

AIM: Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) is very common in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid irreversible damage and improve quality of life. Our aim was to develop recommendations to improve NLUTD identification in MS patients, along with their referral and management. METHODS: A multidisciplinary group of 14 experts in the management of patients with MS and NLUTD (nine urologists, three neurologists, and two rehabilitators) was selected. A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken and a set of recommendations was generated and submitted to a Delphi panel of 114 experts. Recommendations were presented according to the grade of agreement (GA). RESULTS: Early diagnosis in asymptomatic patients with risk factors for complications is recommended (GA 94%). Postvoid residual volume should be measured if changes in urinary symptoms (GA 87%), preferably ultrasound-guided (GA 86%). Early referral to urologist is recommended if urinary incontinence (GA 91%), significant post-void residual volume (94%), quality of life impairment (GA 98%) and recurrent urinary infections (GA 97%). The initial evaluation should include physical examination (GA 99%) and urodynamics including cystometry (GA 89%), pressure-flow study (90%) and electromyography (GA 70%). The panel recommends multidisciplinary collaboration (GA 100%) with a rehabilitation specialist and trained nurses in the management of NLUTD (GA 99%). CONCLUSIONS: Multidisciplinary management for patients with NLUTD due to MS is advised, including urologists, neurologists, rehabilitation, and nurses. Panel recommends early diagnosis with post-void residual volume in symptomatic patients before referring to urologist and urodynamics when referred.

Mid-term safety and efficacy of the ALTIS® single-incision sling for female stress urinary incontinence: less mesh, same results.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the mid-term safety and efficacy of the ALTIS® single-incision sling (Coloplast Corp., Minneapolis, MN, USA) for female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective, single-arm, unsponsored, observational single-centre trial in a cohort of patients undergoing SUI surgery with the ALTIS procedure. All patients were diagnosed according to clinical reports, physical exploration and urodynamics. Body mass index (BMI) was categorised according to World Health Organization classification. Valsalva leak-point pressure (VLPP) was categorised in three groups: <60, 60-90 and >90 cmH2 O. Patients were evaluated postoperatively at 1, 6, 12 and 24 months with physical examination, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF), and satisfaction visual scale (SVS; score 0-10). Adverse events were assessed at each visit. Multivariate analysis for risk factors of surgery failure was performed. RESULTS: We recruited 110 women, with a mean (SD) follow-up of 22.34 (10.34) months. Regarding efficacy, 91 patients (82.7%) were objectively cured and 97 (88.2%) were subjectively cured. Regarding VLPP and BMI, no differences were seen between groups (P > 0.05). There was a ~20% decrease in urge UI (P = 0.04). No variable showed to be an independent risk factor for ALTIS failure (P > 0.05). Overall, nearly 96% of the women reported 9 or 10 points on the SVS. A total of 24 patients (21.8%) had some kind of complication. No mesh erosion was reported in any patient. CONCLUSIONS: The ALTIS sling demonstrated to be an effective and safe procedure for SUI in the mid-term setting. Objective and subjective cure rates are at least comparable to 'gold standard' procedures with a minimal rate of self-limiting non-surgical complications.

Do the definitions of the underactive bladder and detrusor underactivity help in managing patients: International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI-RS) Think Tank 2017?

AIMS: The Think Tank aimed to discuss the pitfalls and advantages of current definitions in terms of research and management of underactive bladder (UAB). UAB broadly defines a symptom complex of bladder emptying problems and does not indicate a specific pathology. Detrusor underactivity (DU) is a urodynamic diagnosis from pressure-flow studies. The correlation of UAB with DU remains to be precisely determined. METHODS: The presentations and subsequent discussion, leading to research recommendations during the Think Tank of the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society in Bristol, 2017, are summarized. RESULTS: To develop more specific individualized management strategies, the Think Tank panel proposed (i) that, since defining a single type of index patient to represent all UAB will not fulfill all clinical research needs, several index patients should be defined by phenotyping of patients with UAB, including, children, young men and women, elderly male and female patients with co-existing DU and detrusor overactivity, and neurological patients with UAB; (ii) prospective longitudinal studies to assess the natural history of UAB, in the different target populations, based on different UAB phenotypes, should be initiated; (iii) DU should be precisely defined by urodynamic parameters; and (iv) work to develop validated specific questionnaires combined with non-invasive tests for screening, diagnosis and follow up, needs to be continued. CONCLUSIONS: The precise relationship of UAB to DU remains to be defined. Phenotyping patients with UAB/DU, performing prospective trials of natural history, and developing symptom questionnaires and diagnostic investigations will improve our ability to identify and treat UAB/DU.

Do we understand voiding dysfunction in women? Current understanding and future perspectives: ICI-RS 2017.

AIMS: Urinary retention in women is poorly understood, compared to the equivalent condition in men, and was the subject of a dedicated session organized at the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI-RS) in Bristol, United Kingdom, 2017. METHODS: The current understanding of the pathophysiological correlates of idiopathic voiding dysfunction in women, the role of urodynamics, neurophysiology, and non-invasive tests in characterizing functional bladder outlet obstruction due to a non-relaxing urethral sphincter, and poorly defined diagnosis of detrusor underactivity were reviewed. RESULTS: Putative factors underlying the pathogenesis of urinary retention following urinary tract infections were discussed. Further research is required to explore the association between bladder wall inflammation and alterations in detrusor contractile functions. The complex interrelationship between urinary retention and psychological co-morbidities and sexual trauma were explored, and the overlap between these and psychological co-morbidities and functional neurological problems with functional urological problems were recognized. Understanding the mechanism of action of sacral neuromodulation, often a successful treatment for urinary retention, would provide insight into the underlying factors that may be responsible for urinary retention. Specifically, there is a need to understand the role of the endogenous enkephalinergic system in the pathogenesis of urinary retention and to identify predictors of successful treatment with sacral neuromodulation. Based on current understanding and potential directions of research in the future, an algorithm for the evaluation of women with voiding dysfunction was proposed. CONCLUSIONS: In the future, recommendations for research should lead to a better understanding of urinary retention in women and its treatment.

Efficacy and safety of combinations of mirabegron and solifenacin compared with monotherapy and placebo in patients with overactive bladder (SYNERGY study).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the potential of solifenacin 5 mg combined with mirabegron 25 or 50 mg to deliver superior efficacy compared with monotherapy, with acceptable tolerability, in the general overactive bladder (OAB) population with urinary incontinence (UI). PATIENTS AND METHODS: After a 4-week placebo run-in, patients aged ≥18 years with wet OAB (urgency, urinary frequency and UI) for ≥3 months who recorded on average ≥8 micturitions/24 h, ≥1 urgency episode/24 h, and ≥3 UI episodes over the 7-day micturition diary, were eligible for randomisation to double-blind treatment [2:2:1:1:1:1 ratio, solifenacin 5 mg + mirabegron 25 mg (combined S5 + M25 group); solifenacin 5 mg + mirabegron 50 mg (combined S5 + M50 group); solifenacin 5 mg; mirabegron 25 mg; mirabegron 50 mg; or placebo for 12 weeks], and 2-weeks' single-blind, placebo run-out. Co-primary efficacy variables were change from baseline to end of treatment (EoT) in the mean number of UI episodes/24 h and micturitions/24 h, assessed using a 7-day electronic micturition diary. Secondary efficacy variables included change from baseline to EoT in the mean volume voided/micturition, change from baseline at weeks 4, 8, 12 and EoT in mean number of UI episodes/24 h, micturitions/24 h, urgency episodes/24 h, urgency UI (UUI) episodes/24 h and nocturia episodes/24 h; the percentage of patients (responders) achieving zero UI episodes/24 h at EoT in the last 7 days prior to each visit, micturition frequency normalisation (<8 episodes/24 h) at weeks 4, 8, 12 and EoT; and the number of UUI episodes and nocturia episodes in the 7-day diary. Safety assessments included incidence and frequency of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), post-void residual (PVR) urine volume, and changes from baseline in laboratory parameters. RESULTS: Whilst the combined S5 + M50 group was superior to solifenacin 5 mg for UI, with a mean (standard error) adjusted difference of -0.20 (0.12) UI episodes/24 h (95% confidence interval -0.44, 0.04, P = 0.033), there was no statistical superiority vs mirabegron 50 mg [-0.23 (0.12) UI episodes/24 h; P = 0.052]. In secondary analyses, all active treatment groups had greater improvements in UI episodes/24 h vs placebo, with effect sizes for the combined therapy groups (combined S5 + M25 group: -0.70 episodes/24 h; combined S5 + M50 group: -0.65 episodes/24 h) that were substantially higher than those obtained with monotherapy (range -0.37 episodes/24 h for mirabegron 25 mg to -0.45 episodes/24 h for solifenacin 5 mg). For micturitions/24 h, adjusted change from baseline to EoT was greater in the combined therapy groups vs monotherapies (combined S5 + M50 group, nominal P values 0.006 and <0.001 vs solifenacin 5 mg and mirabegron 50 mg, respectively; combined S5 + M25 group, nominal P values 0.040 and 0.001 vs solifenacin 5 mg and mirabegron 25 mg, respectively). All active treatment groups had greater improvements in the mean numbers of micturitions/24 h vs placebo, with effect sizes for the combined therapy groups (combined S5 + M25 group: -0.85 micturitions/24 h; combined S5 + M50 group: -0.95 micturitions/24 h) higher than with mirabegron monotherapy (25 mg: -0.36; 50 mg: -0.39 micturitions/24 h) and solifenacin 5 mg (-0.56 micturitions/24 h). The combined S5 + M50 group was statistically significantly superior to both monotherapies at EoT for UUI episodes, urgency episodes and nocturia, with effect sizes that appeared to be additive. The combined S5 + M25 group was statistically significantly superior to mirabegron 25 mg for the same variables, except for nocturia. In responder analyses at the EoT, odds ratios in favour of both combined therapies vs monotherapies were shown for the proportion of patients with zero UI episodes and those achieving micturition frequency normalisation. There was a slightly increased frequency of TEAEs in the combined therapy groups vs monotherapies and placebo. Most of the TEAEs were mild or moderate in severity. Events indicative of urinary retention were reported slightly more frequently in the combined therapy groups vs monotherapy and placebo. PVR volume was slightly increased in the combined therapy groups vs solifenacin 5 mg, mirabegron monotherapy, and placebo groups. There were slightly higher frequencies of dry mouth, constipation, and dyspepsia in the combined therapy groups vs monotherapies. There were no concerns regarding electrocardiograms and laboratory data. CONCLUSION: In the largest OAB study to date, combined therapy with solifenacin 5 mg + mirabegron 25 mg and solifenacin 5 mg + mirabegron 50 mg provided consistent improvements in efficacy compared with the respective monotherapies across most of the outcome parameters, with effect sizes generally consistent with an additive effect. Although the combined S5 + M50 group did not achieve a statistically significant effect vs mirabegron 50 mg in the primary analysis of one of the co-primary endpoints (change from baseline in mean number of UI episodes/24 h), it approached statistical significance (P = 0.052), and the nominal P values for the other co-primary endpoint (micturitions/24 h) were <0.05. Most effects of combined therapy vs monotherapy were observable by week 4. The clinical relevance of the improvements seen with combined therapy for several objective OAB outcome measures was also supported by the improvements of combined therapy vs monotherapy in the responder analyses.

Urodynamic findings in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with lower urinary tract symptoms: Results from a pilot study.

AIMS: To determine lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) prevalence and urodynamic findings in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients treated in our hospital. METHODS: Cross-sectional and descriptive study on a cohort of ALS patients. Validated questionnaires (ICIQ-SF, IPSS, and OAB-V8) were self-administered in order to evaluate the presence of LUTS. Symptoms were classified as clinically significant (csLUTS), if any of following scores, IPSS > 7, ICIQ-SF > 0, or OAB-V8 ≥ 8, were present. Urodynamic study was offered to csLUTS patients. Physical examination and prostate ultrasound were also performed. RESULTS: Fifty five of seventy nine (70%) ALS patients accepted to participate in the study. Only 24/55 (43.6%) patients met criteria for csLUTS and 13 patients reported urgency urinary incontinence (26.3%). Most of csLUTS patients complained of mixed symptoms (82.6%). QoL measured by IPSS was 2.1 ± 1.5, 20% scoring as mostly dissatisfied or unhappy. Average QoL ICIQ-SF scoring was 3.17 ± 3, 33% complained of moderate to severe bother. Ten of twenty four (41.7%) csLUTS patients consented to UDS. The most frequent finding was detrusor overactivity with obstruction due to non-relaxing external sphincter (five patients) or bladder neck (two patients). Two patients showed normal bladder filling but non-relaxing external sphincter during voiding. UDS was normal in one patient. CONCLUSIONS: In this small pilot study we found a high prevalence of csLUTS in ALS which are mainly related to a combination of voiding and storage symptoms. In most patients, symptoms are caused by overactive detrusor combined with non-relaxing sphincter. Severity of symptoms and impact in QoL is only moderate but in a subset of patients can be considerable. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:626-631, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

When should video be added to conventional urodynamics in adults and is it justified by the evidence? ICI-RS 2014.

AIMS: To debate and evaluate the evidence base regarding the added value of video to urodynamics in adults and to define research questions. METHODS: In the ICI-RS Meeting 2014 a Think Tank analyzed the current guidelines recommending video urodynamics (VUD) and performed a literature search to determine the level of evidence for the additional value of the imaging with urodynamic assessment of both neurogenic and non-neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. RESULTS: Current guidelines do not specify the added value of imaging to urodynamics. Recommendations are based on single center series and expert opinion. Standard imaging protocols are not available and evidence regarding the balance between number and timing of pictures, patient positioning, and exposure time on the one hand and diagnosis on the other hand is lacking. On the basis of expert consensus VUD is relevant in the follow-up of patients with spinal dysraphism. Evidence for the value of VUD in non-neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction is sparse. There is some evidence that VUD is not necessary in uncomplicated female SUI, but expert opinion suggests it might improve the evaluation of patients with recurrent SUI. CONCLUSIONS: There is only low level evidence for the addition of video to urodynamics. The ICI-RS Think Tank encourages better reporting of results of imaging and systematic reporting of X-ray doses. Specific research hypotheses regarding the added value of imaging are recommended. The panel suggests the development of standards for technically optimal VUD that is practically achievable with machines that are on the market.

Predicting self-perceived antimuscarinic therapy effectiveness on overactive bladder symptoms using the Overactive Bladder 8-Question Awareness Tool.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: This work was designed to explore the ability of the self-administered Overactive Bladder 8-Question Awareness Tool (OAB-V8) to predict patient self-assessed effectiveness of antimuscarinic therapy on OAB symptoms in daily practice. Also, the ability of the tool to predict clinician evaluation of improvement was explored. METHODS: Patients of both genders, >18 years, with symptomatic OAB (score >8 on OAB-V8), and able to understand patient-reported outcome instruments were enrolled in this 3-month study. Patients were prescribed treatment with an antimuscarinic drug according to usual practice. Treatment effectiveness was assessed by the clinician and patient using the Clinical Global Impression of Improvement and Treatment Benefit Scale and by improved self-perceived quality of life using the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire Short Form (OAB-q SF) 3 months after initiating or changing an antimuscarinic therapy. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models were applied to explore the predictive validity of OAB-V8 scores at the baseline visit. RESULTS: A total of 246 patients (57.7 years, 67 % women) were analyzed. Based on baseline OAB-V8 scores, logistic regression models were capable of predicting clinical improvement and patient self-perceived treatment benefit in 70 % of cases. OAB-V8 scores significantly correlated with OAB-q SF domains at baseline: 0.790 and - 0.659 for symptom bother and health-related quality of life domains, respectively (p < 0.001 in both cases). Baseline OAB-V8 score was able to predict changes in both domains of the OAB-q SF: R (2) = 0.212 and 0.162 for symptom bother and health-related quality of life, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The OAB-V8 scale showed evidence of predictive validity for antimuscarinic effectiveness in daily practice based on physician assessment and patient self-assessment of improved quality of life and treatment benefit.

Is detrusor underactivity associated with voiding dysfunction after single incision sling surgery?

BACKGROUND: Some women experience voiding dysfunction after stress urinary incontinence (SUI) surgery. We explore if detrusor underactivity (DU) found in urodynamic study (UDS) prior to SUI surgery using an adjustable single incision sling (SIS) may be related to voiding dysfunction after surgery. METHODS: This is a prospective, diagnostic, transversal, single center study comparing voiding dysfunction after SUI surgery with a SIS (Altis®; Coloplast, Humlebæk, Denmark) between women with DU (cases) or normal detrusor (controls). Inclusion criterium was women ≥18 years with SUI/mixed UI (stress predominant) operated between June 2013 and December 2020. Exclusion criteria were: women without UDS prior to surgery or without voiding phase in the P/Q, previous incontinence surgery, POP stage ≥2, neurogenic conditions, other pelvic floor surgery. Urinary symptoms were assessed using structured questions evaluating storage/voiding symptoms. Patients were divided into two groups according to projected Isovolumetric Pressure Index (PIP1) with 30-75 cmH2O indicating normal contractility. RESULTS: A total of 139 women were included, 29 (20.9%) in DU group and 110 (79.1%) in control group. Control and DU groups have shown similar objective (75.5% vs. 71.4% P=0.66) and subjective (85.4% vs. 96.1% P=0.22) success rates, respectively, without statistical differences. Voiding symptoms increased after surgery in both groups (+20.7% DU group vs. +8.1% normal group, P=0.29). More voiding symptoms (persistent/de novo) were found in DU group vs. normal group, but without statistically significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: According to our results, the presence of DU previous to SUI surgery with a SIS (Altis®, Coloplast) has no impact on objective and subjective success rates. On the other hand, patients with preoperative DU showed higher proportion of voiding dysfunction but no statistical difference.

What Are the Short-term Benefits and Potential Harms of Therapeutic Modalities for the Management of Overactive Bladder Syndrome in Women? A Review of Evidence Under the Auspices of the European Association of Urology, Female Non-neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Guidelines Panel.

CONTEXT: Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) is highly prevalent among women and has a negative impact on their quality of life. The current available treatments for OAB symptoms include conservative, pharmacological, or surgical modalities. OBJECTIVE: To provide an updated contemporary evidence document regarding OAB treatment options and determine the short-term effectiveness, safety, and potential harms of the available treatment modalities for women with OAB syndrome. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The Medline, Embase, and Cochrane controlled trial databases and clinicaltrial.gov were searched for all relevant publications up to May 2022. The risk of bias assessment followed the recommended tool in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, and quality of evidence was assessed using the modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. A meta-analysis was performed where appropriate. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Antimuscarinics and beta-3 agonists were significantly more effective than placebo across most outcomes, with beta-3 agonists being more effective at reducing nocturia episodes and antimuscarinics causing significantly higher adverse events. Onabotulinumtoxin-A (Onabot-A) was more effective than placebo across most outcomes, but with significantly higher rates of acute urinary retention/clean intermittent self-catheterisation (six to eight times) and urinary tract infections (UTIs; two to three times). Onabot-A was also significantly better than antimuscarinics in the cure of urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) but not in the reduction of mean UUI episodes. Success rates of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) were significantly higher than those of antimuscarinics (61% vs 42%, p = 0.02), with similar rates of adverse events. SNS and Onabot-A were not significantly different in efficacy outcomes. Satisfaction rates were higher with Onabot-A, but with a higher rate of recurrent UTIs (24% vs 10%). SNS was associated with 9% removal rate and 3% revision rate. CONCLUSIONS: Overactive bladder is a manageable condition, with first-line treatment options including antimuscarinics, beta-3 agonists, and posterior tibial nerve stimulation. Second-line options include Onabot-A bladder injections or SNS. The choice of therapies should be guided by individual patient factors. PATIENT SUMMARY: Overactive bladder is a manageable condition. All patients should be informed and advised on conservative treatment measures in the first instance. The first-line treatment options for its management include antimuscarinics or beta-3 agonists medication, and posterior tibial nerve stimulation procedures. The second-line options include onabotulinumtoxin-A bladder injections or sacral nerve stimulation procedure. The therapy should be chosen based on individual patient factors.

Female LUTS adaptations to COVID era: Lessons learned from the ICS TURNOVER (Transition of fUnctional uRology to New COVID ERa).

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically affected the Female and Functional Urology (FFU) practice, leading to massive waiting lists, while patients' quality of life remains severely impaired. The aim of the present study is to develop consensual recommendations to guide clinicians on the management of FFU patients. The present paper focuses on female LUTS. Methods: The authors used the Delphi methodology to develop a robust survey questionnaire, covering the principal topics in FFU, based on literature review and expert opinions. Regarding female LUTS, a 98-question survey was distributed among FFU specialists to obtain optimized recommendations, under the auspicious of the International Continence Society (TURNOVER, ICS project). A quantitative analysis of the data was performed, categorizing the mean value from 0-10. Consensus achievement was defined as attaining ≥ 70% agreement. Results: 98 ICS members completed the F-LUTS survey. Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of female LUTS are summarized. Video-consultation should be used for initial assessment, sending questionnaires and bladder diaries in advance to the patient to be filled out before the consultation. However, face-to-face visits are mandatory if POP or continuous incontinence are suspected, and prior to any surgical procedure, regardless of the health alert. Moreover, prescribing medications such as anticholinergics or ß 3 agonists in a telemedicine setting is not considered a safe practice. Follow-up teleconsultations can be used to assess the efficacy and treatment-related adverse events.Urodynamic testing should be only performed if consequences on F-LUTS treatment are expected. The study should be postponed until the pandemic local behaviour flattens.Invasive procedures should be postponed during a high alert. In case surgery is scheduled, outpatient clinics and local anaesthesia should be prioritized. Every patient should be screened for SARS-CoV-2 infection before invasive tests or procedures, following local authorities' guidance. Conclusions: During a pandemic, telemedicine offers a novel way of communication, maintaining medical care while preventing viral transmission. Non-urgent procedures should be postponed until the pandemic curve flattens. Ambulatory procedures under regional or local anaesthesia should be prioritized, aiming to reduce bed occupancy and risk of transmission.