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Neuroanatomy Relevant for the Urologist

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Neuro-Urology

Abstract

In order to restore bladder function, a system-oriented treatment may be more preferred than an organ-based treatment. Such system approach involves always modulation via the nervous system. Therefore, it is important to have some basic knowledge about the neural connections of the lower urinary tract. This chapter will provide this information on the innervation by peripheral nerves, how these lower urinary tract nerves connect with the central nervous system, and which central areas are important for continence and micturition. Furthermore, specific forebrain structures, which decide whether micturition may start or continence has to continue, are discussed. The reader will learn that urinary continence and micturition are controlled by separated pathways, which cross talk only at higher brain levels. When these pathways are damaged, it is not possible to maintain normal bladder function.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

    Bertil F. M. Blok

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  1. Bertil F. M. Blok
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Correspondence to Bertil F. M. Blok .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA

    Roger Dmochowski

  2. Department of Urology, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands

    John Heesakkers

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Blok, B.F.M. (2018). Neuroanatomy Relevant for the Urologist. In: Dmochowski, R., Heesakkers, J. (eds) Neuro-Urology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-90997-4_1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-90997-4_1

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-90995-0

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-90997-4

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