Addressing Neurogenic Bladder: Understanding Prevalence, Unmet Needs, and Effective Management

Tamara Kaplan, MD, introduces a new video series highlighting the scope and treatment of neurogenic bladder.

Panelist discusses how the neuroanatomy of bladder function involves a sophisticated interplay between autonomic and somatic nervous systems. The bladder is controlled by parasympathetic nerves (S2-S4) for detrusor contraction, sympathetic nerves (T11-L2) for sphincter control, and somatic nerves for voluntary control via the pudendal nerve. This complex coordination enables both automatic storage and voluntary voiding through reciprocal innervation.

Panelist discusses how bladder dysfunction in neurological conditions requires attention, as it significantly affects patient quality of life and can indicate disease progression or complications. Neurologists face challenges in diagnosis and treatment due to overlapping symptoms, complex neural pathways involved, and the need to differentiate between multiple potential causes.