Unraveling influencing factors for incontinence and training in children with cerebral palsy - Improving patient selection by means of patient-based and MRI research

BACKGROUND Urinary incontinence is the most frequently observed lower urinary tract symptom in children with cerebral palsy (CP) (Samijn et al., 2016). Being completely or more continent could positively influence the quality of life and health status of the child and the social environment. Non-invasive training is thought to be an effective treatment option, but success rate is lower and changes occur more slowly in time in children with CP compared to typically developing children. Higher brain centers responsible for bladder function may be related to the presence of incontinence or effectiveness of training. These higher brain centers could be correlated to the brain damage seen in children with CP. OBJECTIVE Unravelling influencing factors for incontinence and therapy in children with CP. METHODOLOGY The main focus of the research project includes the investigation of correlations between brain lesions and incontinence or training success. This will be analysed by means of anatomical and functional MRI studies. Secondly other viable influencing factors will be analysed by means of patient data included in evaluation and training of incontinence. HYPOTHESIS This research project aims to improve evaluation and treatment of incontinence in children with cerebral palsy by enabling correct communication and realistic expectation, improved patient selection and feasible strategies for both the child and the social environment.