News & Events
Houston Methodist Study Pioneers Real-Time Imaging of Spinal Cord Bladder Control
We are proud to share that Dr. Rose Khavari’s pioneering research was recently featured on the Leading Medicine Blog from Houston Methodist.
Published in Neurourology and Urodynamics (2025), the study demonstrates for the first time that functional MRI can capture real-time neural activity within human spinal cord regions responsible for bladder control. This novel spinal cord fMRI protocol overcomes longstanding imaging challenges and establishes a new platform for studying lower urinary tract function and neurogenic bladder disorders.
This breakthrough represents an important step toward integrating spinal cord activity into the broader brain- bladder control model, advancing our understanding of how neural circuits regulate urinary function.
Houston Methodist Study Pioneers Real-Time Imaging of Spinal Cord Bladder Control Function
NeuroUrology Lab at SUFU 2026
Members of the NeuroUrology Lab proudly attended the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU) 2026 Winter Meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico, showcasing a broad spectrum of research ranging from neuroimaging to clinical innovation. Assistant Research Professor Betsy Salazar was featured in the Young Investigator Spotlight for her work on neuroimaging and spinal cord dynamics, while Dr. Rachel High shared her exciting pilot trial results on brain and pelvic floor activity in overactive bladder patients after transcranial magnetic stimulation.
The lab also presented a video abstract on the novel use of Bulkamid (minimally invasive bulking agent) for continent channel (stoma) incontinence and shared two key presentations from our Spina Bifida Registry regarding sexuality and fertility knowledge gaps. These diverse contributions underscore the lab's commitment to advancing both scientific understanding and patient care.
Team Member Recognition & Achievements
We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our NeuroUrology Lab team:
Featured in Leading Medicine at Houston Methodist for pioneering spinal cord fMRI research.
Read the full article: Houston Methodist Study Pioneers Real-Time Imaging of Spinal Cord Bladder Control Function
Dr. Rachel High:
Awarded the Houston Methodist Academic Institute Presidential Award for NIH Competitiveness for her study on supraspinal activity in adults with underactive bladder (UAB).
Dr. Argy Stampas, Dr. Betsy Salazar, and team:
Recognized for securing DoD funding supporting home-based neuromodulation in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury. Learn more: https://cdmrp.health.mil/scirp/awards/24ctraecpoawards
Lab members:
Presenting abstracts, posters, and engaging in educational sessions at SUFU 2026 and other scientific meetings.
These achievements reflect the lab’s dedication to advancing neuro-urology research and fostering innovation across clinical and translational projects.
Team Lunch/Dinner Events:
The lab enjoyed a team lunch on March 19, 2026, fostering collaboration and camaraderie. Lunch was provided during our weekly meeting at Scurlock 2100 Conference Room, with options for virtual participation via Teams.
A podcast for Neurogenic Bladders, presented by the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction
