Non-neurogenic Voiding Dysfunction in Pediatric Patients and Female Adults: Review of Current Clinical Trials

Non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction is a common lower urinary tract condition that affects both pediatric and adult patients. Normal bladder physiology requires complex coordination of the brain, spinal cord, bladder, and surrounding pelvic floor musculature. Abnormalities in this cycle can lead to symptoms of voiding dysfunction. The pathophysiology of voiding dysfunction can be multifactorial and influenced by different clinical settings, such as the perioperative or post-obstetric care periods.

The goal of this review is to review the definitions, pathophysiology, and treatments for pediatric and adult female non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction.

A literature review using PubMed of relevant randomized clinical trials on treatments for voiding dysfunction in adults and children from 2000 to 2024 was completed.

Of the 3397 abstracts initially reviewed, 97 full-text manuscripts were screened, and a total of 31 articles met the criteria for inclusion. These manuscripts were reviewed, and their findings were reported within the manuscript.

Voiding dysfunction can present as inadequate functioning of the emptying stage of micturition. It can present in children and female adults and has overall similar management strategies in both populations. For clinicians, it is important to understand the definition, relevant physiology, and the current evidence for treatment approaches for voiding dysfunction.