Summary of the 2024 Update of the European Association of Urology Guidelines on Neurourology

Abstract

Background and objective: Most patients with neurourological disorders require lifelong medical care. The European Association of Urology (EAU) regularly updates guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of these patients. The objective of this review is to provide a summary of the 2024 updated EAU guidelines on neurourology.

Methods: A structured literature review covering the timeframe 2021-2023 was conducted for the guideline update. A level of evidence and a strength rating were assigned for each recommendation on the basis of the literature data.

Key findings and limitations: Neurological conditions significantly affect urinary, sexual, and bowel function, and lifelong management is required for neurourological patients to maintain their quality of life and prevent urinary tract deterioration. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are key, and comprehensive clinical assessments, including urodynamics, are crucial. Management should be customised to individual needs and should involve a multidisciplinary approach and address sexuality and fertility. Lifelong monitoring and follow-up highlight the importance of continuous care for neurourological patients.

Conclusions and clinical implications: The 2024 EAU guidelines on neurourology provide an up-to-date overview of available evidence on diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for neurourological patients.

Patient summary: Neurological disorders very frequently affect the lower urinary tract and sexual and bowel function and patients need lifelong management. We summarise the updated European Association of Urology guidelines on neurourology to provide patients and caregivers with the latest insights for optimal health care support.

Keywords: Bladder dysfunction; Bowel dysfunction; Lifelong care; Lower urinary tract dysfunction; Multidisciplinary care; Neurological disorders; Neurourological patients; Sexual dysfunction; Upper urinary tract dysfunction.