Understanding the mechanics of the bladder through experiments and theoretical models: Where we started and where we are heading

Abstract

Bladder control problems affect both men and women and range from an overactive bladder, to urinary incontinence, to bladder obstruction and cancer. These disorders affect more than 200 million people worldwide. Loss of bladder function significantly affects the quality of life, both physically and psychologically, and also has a large impact on the healthcare system, i.e., the incurring costs related to diagnosis, treatment and medical/nursing care. Improvements in diagnostic capabilities and disease management are essential to improve patient care and quality of life and reduce the economic burden associated with bladder disorders. This paper summarizes some of the key contributions to understanding the mechanics of the bladder ranging from work conducted in the 1970s through the present time with a focus on material testing and theoretical modeling. Advancements have been made in these areas and a significant contribution to these changes was related to technological improvements.