Suprapontine Lesions and Neurogenic Pelvic Dysfunctions

The suprapontine region plays a fundamental role in the control of the pelvic function through different, well-identified zones (see Chaps. 1 and 3). Its areas have the functions to ensure that the start of defecation and/or micturition is under voluntary control and activate at the time and place, accordingly to a correct social behaviour. Second, register bladder and bowel-filling signals, transmitting to higher brain centres to ensure conscious sensation (Holstege J Comp Neurol. 493:15–20, 2005). Suprapontine lesions (SPL) could therefore determine a coordinated bladder and bowel function allowing complete emptying but with a wrong timing. However different situations can be observed depending on the neurological disorder.