Autonomic Dysreflexia as a Complication of a Fecal Management System in a Man With Tetraplegia

J Spinal Cord Med, 2010 · DOI: · Published: June 1, 2010

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Gastroenterology

Simple Explanation

Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a dangerous condition involving a sudden, severe rise in blood pressure in people with spinal cord injuries. This case report describes a man with tetraplegia who experienced autonomic dysreflexia after a fecal management system (FMS) was inserted. The symptoms of AD improved immediately after the FMS was removed, suggesting it was the cause.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

A 26-year-old man with C5 tetraplegia

Evidence Level

Case report

Key Findings

1
A fecal management system (FMS) used to manage fecal incontinence triggered autonomic dysreflexia in a patient with tetraplegia.
2
Removal of the FMS resulted in immediate resolution of the autonomic dysreflexia symptoms.
3
This is the first reported case of autonomic dysreflexia associated with the use of a fecal management system.

Research Summary

This case report highlights a previously unreported complication of fecal management systems: autonomic dysreflexia (AD) in patients with high-level spinal cord injuries. A 26-year-old man with C5 tetraplegia developed severe AD after insertion of a fecal management system for fecal incontinence and a sacral pressure ulcer. The AD symptoms resolved rapidly after the FMS was removed, suggesting a causal relationship and the need for caution when using these systems in susceptible patients.

Practical Implications

Clinical Awareness

Clinicians should be aware of the potential for autonomic dysreflexia when using fecal management systems in patients with high-level spinal cord injuries.

Careful Monitoring

Close monitoring for signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia is essential when using fecal management systems in susceptible patients.

Cautious Use

Fecal management systems should be used with caution in patients with high-level spinal cord injuries, considering the risk of autonomic dysreflexia.

Autonomic Dysreflexia as a Complication of a Fecal Management System in a Man With Tetraplegia

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Clinical Awareness

Careful Monitoring

Cautious Use

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Autonomic Dysreflexia as a Complication of a Fecal Management System in a Man With Tetraplegia

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Clinical Awareness

Careful Monitoring

Cautious Use

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?