Impact of annual urodynamic evaluations on guiding bladder management in individuals with spinal cord injuries

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2013 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772313Y.0000000106 · Published: January 1, 2013

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the role of yearly urodynamic evaluations in managing bladder function for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Urodynamic studies help assess bladder and sphincter function. The research assesses whether annual urodynamic evaluations lead to changes in bladder management strategies, such as medication adjustments or other interventions. The findings highlight the importance of regular urodynamic assessments in preventing complications and optimizing bladder management for people with SCI, regardless of their specific bladder management method, injury duration, or injury level.

Study Duration

5 months

Participants

96 individuals with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Prospective cross-sectional observational study

Key Findings

1
Nearly half (47.9%) of the individuals required some type of intervention based on their annual urodynamic study.
2
The most common intervention was a change in medication, with 69% of individuals requiring interventions needing urological medication adjustments.
3
The need for interventions did not significantly vary based on the type of bladder management, length of injury, or level of injury.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the impact of annual urodynamic evaluations on bladder management in individuals with SCI. The study enrolled 96 individuals with traumatic SCI undergoing annual urological evaluations. The results showed that 47.9% of individuals required at least one type of intervention based on urodynamic studies, with urological interventions being the most common. The study concludes that annual urodynamic evaluation plays an important role in guiding bladder management following SCI, helping to identify and address changes in bladder function and prevent potential complications.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Annual urodynamic evaluations should be considered as a standard of care for individuals with SCI to proactively manage bladder function and prevent complications.

Research

Further research is needed to determine the optimal frequency of urodynamic evaluations and to assess the long-term outcomes of annual evaluations.

Patient Education

Patients with SCI should be educated about the importance of regular urodynamic evaluations and the potential benefits of proactive bladder management.

Study Limitations

1
Single-center study
2
The study was not designed to determine the optimal schedule for bladder testing
3
The impact of the AIS on management interventions was not evaluated because of the predominance of individuals with AIS A

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