Use of botulinum toxin in urology: a literature review

Abstract

Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is currently preferred as a minimally invasive treatment for lower urinary tract pathologies. Although BoNT injections have become widespread globally for the past 5 years, today, the urological use of BoNT Type A (BoNT-A) is only licensed for the treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity and overactive bladder. Despite the relative evidence for the use of BoNT-A in benign prostatic enlargement, there is no high-level evidence data for the use in detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, and chronic pelvic pain. In this comprehensive review, we mention the mechanism of action and efficacy of BoNT in various urological disorders, present the reliability, and evaluate the literature data supporting its use.