Functional brain imaging and the bladder: new insights into cerebral control over micturition
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Updated: Aug 31, 2026

Detrusor Underactivity Model in Rats by Conus Medullaris Transection
Published on: August 28, 2020
Richard T Kershen1, John Kalisvaart, Rodney A Appell
1Department of Surgery, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 1775 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT 05403, USA. Richard.Kershen@vtmednet.org
Abstract:
Mechanisms for cerebral control over the micturition process remain poorly elucidated. The knowledge is based largely on human pathophysiology and data derived from electrophysiologic testing in animals. Recent advances in dynamic functional brain imaging technologies including positron-emission tomography, single photon emission computed tomography, and functional magnetic resonance imaging have allowed new insights into how the human brain regulates this process. This article discusses animal studies, which provided the foundation for our understanding of cerebral control over micturition, and recent human studies, implementing functional brain imaging to enhance our knowledge of this complex phenomenon.
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