Anatomy of the lower urinary tract

The lower urinary tract consists of the bladder and urethra and in males also includes the prostate. These organs are involved in the involuntary storage of urine produced in the upper urinary tract and the voluntary expulsion of urine at an appropriate time and place. Functional disorders such as overactive bladder, urinary incontinence and bladder outlet obstruction secondary to prostatic enlargement are common, as are bladder and prostate carcinoma. A thorough knowledge of the relevant anatomy is vital to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms and appropriate management of these conditions. There are considerable variations in the anatomy of the male and female urinary tract and this review of the anatomy highlights these differences, in addition to providing a comprehensive description of the histology, vasculature and innervations of the lower urinary tract organs.