Global Differences in Management of Neurogenic Bladder: Indian Perspective

Purpose of Review: The term neurogenic bladder (NGB) generally used for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) refers to storage and/or voiding dysfunction of the lower urinary tract, in patients after a neurological illness. The aim of management of NGB is to preserve renal function, achieving effective bladder emptying, urinary continence, and improving overall QOL. This is possible with detailed history taking, physical examination, relevant investigations, patient education, and an agreed treatment plan and a regular follow-up. Currently in India, there are no guidelines available for management of NGB. Considering India as a developing country and having a diversified health care system where the private sector in addition to the public health system plays an equally important role in delivering health care across the population, and with population distributed asymmetrically on the socioeconomic ladder, it is difficult to develop a single management protocol for management. This review is a step to understand current practices in India and how it differs in management of NGB, globally. Recent Findings: The European Association of Urology (EAU) and American Urology Association (AUA) guidelines have been recently updated in 2022 and 2021 respectively. Summary: Most clinicians in India follow a set protocol in line with available international guidelines suitable to local available services and expertise keeping in mind the best interest of patients. However, differences in management between concerned clinicians still exist; hence, there is a need for more research and formulating uniform consensus to approach management of neurogenic bladder in India.