Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) symposium: Partnering with Engineering in Neurogenic Bladder Research

Abstract Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD), formerly “neurogenic bladder,” encompasses bladder and sphincter abnormalities resulting from neuromuscular diseases or injuries. Conditions such as cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs), spinal cord injuries (SCIs), and age-related neurogenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and

other types of dementia contribute to NLUTD1. This condition is prevalent, affecting approximately 15% of stroke patients and 70-84% of those with spinal cord injuries2. Furthermore, NLUTD is found in 40-90% of individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), 37-72% in those with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and has been reported in more

than 90% of children with spina bifida3,4. Urinary incontinence in individuals with dementia escalates in tandem with the severity of the condition, and except for SCI, aging is the primary risk factor for these neurological conditions5-7. Patients with NLUTD experience drastic effects on quality of life secondary to the development of

urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary retention, incontinence, renal dysfunction, and autonomic dysreflexia1. The Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) is an academic society dedicated to improving the lives of patients with NLUTD through application of patient-centered outcomes research. Sequelae of NLUTD are usually

electively managed with a combination of medications, medical devices and surgical approaches. Recently, more advanced devices have been employed for management of urinary symptoms associated with NLUTD, including tibial nerve stimulators and sacral neuromodulation systems. However, while these devices improve the quality

of life for patients with neurogenic urinary symptoms, further research and development is critical to maximize the efficacy and longevity of urologic technology8,9. The overarching goal of this proposal is to host an NBRG affiliated meeting, which will be the first of its kind, to identify areas in the management of NLUTD that

would benefit from engineering solutions. To achieve this theme, in Aim 1, leading researchers in engineering and multiple medical specialties, including urology, neurology, neurosurgery, and pediatrics – as well as patient representatives – will be invited to participate in active lectures, group discussion, round tables to identify the gaps in NLUTD care that engineering

solutions can address. In Aim 2, guidelines will be written to outline the role of engineers in neurogenic bladder care and guide the development of engineering solutions in NLUTD for the near future. In Aim 3, engineering, doctoral, and medical students and junior investigators will be invited to submit abstracts for presentation to

promote early showcasing and mentorship in NLUTD research. Toward the manifestation of these aims, we are applying for an R13 conference grant. This timely meeting is in full agreement with the missions of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and the National Institute on Aging (NIA). This

conference will the first to bring together engineers and researchers/clinicians to advance technologic solutions for the care of NLUTD and to compose a series of guiding principles on the subject.