Urodynamic Testing in Children: Indications, Technique, Interpretation and Significance

PurposeUrodynamic studies in children have been performed with increasing frequency as the techniques, reproducibility and reliability of the testing have been refined in the last quarter century. Children of all ages and with a variety of comorbidities are now often referred for urodynamic testing to evaluate and understand the causes of incontinence and/or persistence of lower urinary tract symptoms, as well as to appropriately define and evaluate treatment regimens.Materials and MethodsWe performed a MEDLINE® search for relevant articles on urinary tract dysfunction, neurogenic bladder and urodynamic studies in the pediatric population. We also included 3 major textbooks that addressed the subject matter.ResultsWe review the current indications for urodynamic studies in children with nonneurogenic and neurogenic bladder dysfunction. We summarize the components and techniques of the current practice of urodynamic studies in the pediatric population, and explain how to identify abnormal results.ConclusionsThe use of urodynamic studies in pediatrics has become almost mandatory for the effective management of severe or therapy resistant urinary tract abnormalities. This review may be used as a guideline for the appropriate application of urodynamics in this patient population.