Incontinence Research

The role of the bladder in voiding disorders in children - towards a better understanding and treatment

Background

This project concerns disorders of micturition (voiding disorders) in children, which is the most common reason for referral to a paediatric urologists or continence paediatrician(1). The urinary bladder is responsible of storage of urine and micturition. Disruptions to either of these 2 functions can result in voiding disorders (VD) These can present with symptoms of urinary incontinence, urinary infections, urinary urgency and/or frequency. These disorders can be quite debilitating and can significantly lower the quality of life of the affected children.

Objectives

To improve upon the current understanding of the pathophysiology of long term bladder dysfunction secondary to posterior urethral valves
To study the role of non-invasive investigative modalities in the management of voiding disorders in children
To study and report the effects of voiding disorders on the quality of life of Australian children of school going age
To explore the use of innovative techniques in the management of VD