Published online Mar 6, 2016. doi: 10.5527/wjn.v5.i2.195
Peer-review started: October 6, 2015
First decision: December 4, 2015
Revised: December 30, 2015
Accepted: January 27, 2016
Article in press: January 29, 2016
Published online: March 6, 2016
Processing time: 158 Days and 9.6 Hours
Intradetrusor injections of botulinum toxin are the cornerstone of medical treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity. The primary aim of this treatment is to ensure a low pressure regimen in the urinary bladder, but the mechanisms leading to long-term protection of the urinary tract remain poorly understood. In this paper, we highlight the potential benefits of intradetrusor injections of botulinum toxin regarding local effects on the bladder structures, urinary tract infections, stone disease, vesico ureteral reflux, hydronephrosis, renal function based on a comprehensive literature review.
Core tip: Intradetrusor injection of botulinum toxin prevent damage of the upper urinary tract via several potential mechanisms including reduction of bladder pressure, urothelium and suburothelium modifications, sensory receptors expression, and hypoxia reduction. These data could explain the favourable effects of intradetrusor injection of botulinum toxin on urinary tract infections, stone disease, vesico ureteral reflux, hydronephrosis, renal function.