Prospective Evaluation of Micturition Desire-Relaxation Training Device for Treating Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Children: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Urine storage and voiding are fundamental physiological processes. In clinical settings, many cases of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) are closely associated with abnormal conditioned reflexes formed in the central nervous system during the urine storage or voiding phases. Relaxation, as a core physiological and psychological state, has been shown to promote effective urine storage and facilitate smooth voiding. By repeatedly training individuals to establish a new conditioned reflex linking the sensation of urinary urgency with a state of relaxation, it may be possible to improve bladder storage capacity and voiding function. Based on this concept, the investigators have developed the world's first Micturition Desire-Relaxation Training Device (Chinese Patent No.: ZL 2020 1 0397789.4). This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of this device in treating LUTD in children.
• Diagnosis according to the ICCS criteria:
• For nocturnal enuresis:
• At least one episode of involuntary nighttime urination per month for more than 3 months.
• No abnormalities in routine urinalysis. No period of bedwetting-free days lasting more than 6 months, except for organic diseases.
• For daytime urinary incontinence:
• At least one episode of intermittent urinary leakage during wakefulness per month for more than 3 months.
• No anatomical or neurological causes of urinary incontinence.
• For urinary frequency:
• The child experiences only urinary frequency and urgency, occurring during the day and before sleep, with intervals ranging from a few minutes to 1 hour. Each urination involves a small volume, less than 50% of the estimated bladder capacity \[EBC (mL) = 30 + (age × 30)\], typically less than 30 mL, sometimes just a few drops, while total daily urine volume remains within normal limits. When the child is engaged in play or focused, the intervals between urination are extended, and urinary frequency symptoms disappear after falling asleep.
• Age: 5 to 18 years (inclusive), regardless of gender.
• Voluntary participation: The child and their guardian must voluntarily participate in the trial and sign the informed consent form.