Change in urodynamic pattern and incidence of urinary tract infection in patients with traumatic spinal cord injury practicing clean self-intermittent catheterization

This study examines how bladder function changes over time in people with spinal cord injuries who use clean intermittent self-catheterization (CIC). CIC is a method where patients regularly empty their bladder using a catheter to prevent complications. The researchers looked at urodynamic parameters, which are measurements of bladder function, and the incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in these patients. They wanted to see if regular CIC and medications could prevent bladder problems and UTIs. The study found that even with regular CIC, bladder capacity and compliance (how well the bladder stretches) decreased over time. UTIs were also common, especially in patients with overactive bladder muscles, and E. coli was the most common cause of these infections.

• 1
  Cystometric capacity and compliance decreased significantly over time, despite regular CIC and antimuscarinic medication use.
• 2
  UTIs were more common in individuals with SCI who had detrusor overactivity (DO).
• 3
  Escherichia coli was the most common cause of UTIs in this population.