Biofeedback Therapy in the Treatment of Children With Dysfunctional Voiding: Does the Presence of Overactive Bladder Affect Treatment Outcomes?

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated biofeedback therapy for treating dysfunctional voiding (DV) and examined how overactive bladder (OAB) affects treatment outcomes.

METHODS

Files of children treated with biofeedback therapy for DV between November 2022-November 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Data collected included demographics, clinical information, dysfunctional voiding symptom scores (DVSS), and uroflowmetry (UF) parameters. Patients were categorized into two groups: Group 1 (DV with OAB) and Group 2 (DV without OAB). Clinical success meant cessation of electromyography (EMG) activity, resolution of symptoms, and improved UF parameters. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using the International Children's Continence Society recommendations.

RESULTS

The study comprised 32 children: 15 in Group 1 (11 girls, 4 boys; mean age: 8.7 ± 3.7 years) and 17 in Group 2 (15 girls, 2 boys; mean age: 7.7 ± 1.9 years). The overall complete response rate was 65.6% (n = 21), and the partial response rate was 21.9% (n = 7). Success rates of Group 1 and Group 2 were similar (complete response: 60.0% vs. 70.6%, p > 0.05; partial response: 20.0% vs. 23.5%, p > 0.05). Both groups showed significant DVSS reduction (p < 0.05). EMG cessation occurred in 84.4% of patients. Postvoid residual volume (%) decreased significantly in Group 2 (p = 0.002) but not in Group 1 (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Biofeedback therapy effectively treats DV, with OAB presence not impacting treatment success.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: UMIN000055031.