Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for Treating Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: A Systematic...

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) significantly impacts quality of life.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is an emerging therapy for urinary disorders.
• Its role in NLUTD requires systematic evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the existing evidence on the efficacy and safety of TENS for treating NLUTD.
• To synthesize findings from available studies to inform clinical practice and future research.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
• Included studies comprised RCTs, cohort studies, case series, and case reports.
• Data on patient demographics, TENS parameters, and urodynamic outcomes were extracted.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two studies with 450 patients were analyzed, encompassing acute and chronic TENS applications.
• TENS demonstrated potential improvements in cystometric capacity, bladder volume, detrusor pressure, voiding frequency, and flow rates.
• No serious adverse events related to TENS were reported, though risk of bias was high.

Conclusions:

• Preliminary evidence suggests TENS may be effective and safe for NLUTD.
• The current evidence base is weak, characterized by high risk of bias and confounding.
• Well-designed randomized controlled trials are essential to establish definitive conclusions on TENS for NLUTD.