# Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) symposium: Partnering with Engineering in Neurogenic Bladder Research

> **NIH NIH R13** · METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · 2024 · $10,000

## Abstract

Abstract
Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD), formerly “neurogenic bladder,” encompasses bladder and
sphincter abnormalities resulting from neuromuscular diseases or injuries. Conditions such as cerebrovascular
accidents (CVAs), spinal cord injuries (SCIs), and age-related neurogenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and
other types of dementia contribute to NLUTD1. This condition is prevalent, affecting approximately 15% of stroke
patients and 70-84% of those with spinal cord injuries2. Furthermore, NLUTD is found in 40-90% of individuals
with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), 37-72% in those with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and has been reported in more
than 90% of children with spina bifida3,4. Urinary incontinence in individuals with dementia escalates in tandem
with the severity of the condition, and except for SCI, aging is the primary risk factor for these neurological
conditions5-7. Patients with NLUTD experience drastic effects on quality of life secondary to the development of
urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary retention, incontinence, renal dysfunction, and autonomic dysreflexia1.
The Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) is an academic society dedicated to improving the lives of
patients with NLUTD through application of patient-centered outcomes research. Sequelae of NLUTD are usually
electively managed with a combination of medications, medical devices and surgical approaches. Recently, more
advanced devices have been employed for management of urinary symptoms associated with NLUTD, including
tibial nerve stimulators and sacral neuromodulation systems. However, while these devices improve the quality
of life for patients with neurogenic urinary symptoms, further research and development is critical to maximize
the efficacy and longevity of urologic technology8,9. The overarching goal of this proposal is to host an NBRG
affiliated meeting, which will be the first of its kind, to identify areas in the management of NLUTD that
would benefit from engineering solutions.
To achieve this theme, in Aim 1, leading researchers in engineering and multiple medical specialties, including
urology, neurology, neurosurgery, and pediatrics – as well as patient representatives – will be invited to
participate in active lectures, group discussion, round tables to identify the gaps in NLUTD care that engineering
solutions can address. In Aim 2, guidelines will be written to outline the role of engineers in neurogenic bladder
care and guide the development of engineering solutions in NLUTD for the near future. In Aim 3, engineering,
doctoral, and medical students and junior investigators will be invited to submit abstracts for presentation to
promote early showcasing and mentorship in NLUTD research. Toward the manifestation of these aims, we are
applying for an R13 conference grant. This timely meeting is in full agreement with the missions of the National
Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and the National Instit...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10999573
- **Project number:** 1R13DK138734-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE
- **Principal Investigator:** Rose Khavari
- **Activity code:** R13 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $10,000
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-08-21 → 2025-08-20

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10999573

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10999573, Neurogenic Bladder Research Group (NBRG) symposium: Partnering with Engineering in Neurogenic Bladder Research (1R13DK138734-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10999573. Licensed CC0.

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