Biofeedback Therapy in the Treatment of Children With Dysfunctional Voiding: Does the Presence of Overactive Bladder Affect Treatment Outcomes?

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluated biofeedback therapy for treating dysfunctional voiding (DV) and examined how overactive bladder (OAB) affects treatment outcomes. Methods: Files of children treated with biofeedback therapy for DV between November 2022-November 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Data collected included demographics, clinical information, dysfunctional voiding symptom scores (DVSS), and uroflowmetry (UF) parameters. Patients were categorized into two groups: Group 1 (DV with OAB) and Group 2 (DV without OAB). Clinical success meant cessation of electromyography (EMG) activity, resolution of symptoms, and improved UF parameters. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using the International Children's Continence Society recommendations. Results: The study comprised 32 children: 15 in Group 1 (11 girls, 4 boys; mean age: 8.7 +/- 3.7 years) and 17 in Group 2 (15 girls, 2 boys; mean age: 7.7 +/- 1.9 years). The overall complete response rate was 65.6% (n = 21), and the partial response rate was 21.9% (n = 7). Success rates of Group 1 and Group 2 were similar (complete response: 60.0% vs. 70.6%, p > 0.05; partial response: 20.0% vs. 23.5%, p > 0.05). Both groups showed significant DVSS reduction (p < 0.05). EMG cessation occurred in 84.4% of patients. Postvoid residual volume (%) decreased significantly in Group 2 (p = 0.002) but not in Group 1 (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Biofeedback therapy effectively treats DV, with OAB presence not impacting treatment success.