[Transition of Patients with Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction: Challenges and Unmet Needs in Adult Care]

Transition describes the structured process by which adolescents are transferred from pediatric and family-centered, and thus predominantly externally determined, care to patient-centered, self-determined adult care. In patients with spina bifida (SB), transition is particularly relevant from a urological perspective, as neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction frequently require chronic pharmacological treatment, permanent bladder management (including intermittent self-catheterization), and lifelong monitoring of kidney and bladder function. At the same time, physical limitations and frequently impaired cognitive executive and planning abilities may hamper the development of self-management skills and treatment adherence. As people with SB exhibit considerable variability in their individual capabilities and needs, they require an individualized transition plan. They benefit from continuous and reliable follow-up at a dedicated center. Only such continuity of care can ensure a safe transition to adult-oriented follow-up care. Ideally, this should be provided by the Medical Centers for Adults with Disabilities (MZEB) in collaboration with urological centers specializing in SB patients.