
Functional Urology is a subspecialty within urology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract disorders related to function rather than structural abnormalities. This includes conditions such as urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, neurogenic bladder, voiding dysfunction, and pelvic floor disorders. Functional urologists use a range of diagnostic tools like urodynamic studies and imaging to assess how the bladder, urethra, and associated muscles perform during filling and voiding. Their approach often combines medical management, behavioral therapy, pelvic floor physiotherapy, and minimally invasive surgical procedures to improve quality of life.
In addition to addressing bladder function, functional urology also deals with complications arising from neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or spinal cord injuries that affect urinary control. It plays a crucial role in both men and women, although certain conditions like stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are more prevalent in women. The field is inherently multidisciplinary, often involving collaboration with gynecologists, neurologists, and physiotherapists, aiming for personalized, holistic patient care.