The refractory overactive bladder patient is a complex new entity for the urologic community. We present the most current review of this difficult subject matter with an emphasis on evaluation and new treatment options such as sacral neuromodulation and botulinum toxin injection. It is hoped that in this new era of medical innovation, extirpation and reconstruction of the bladder will become historic in nature and refractory therapy can be transitioned to the office and outpatient operation rooms.