Incidence of Renal Tract Abnormalities on Ultrasonography in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: A Retrospective Pilot Study of a Military Cohort Undergoing Long-Term Institutional Rehabilitation

Asian Spine J, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.31616/asj.2020.0471 · Published: April 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Urology Medical Imaging

Simple Explanation

This study looks at the occurrence of kidney and bladder problems in military personnel with spinal cord injuries undergoing rehabilitation. The study used ultrasound to find these problems and see if they were related to how long ago the injury happened or how the bladder was managed. The findings can help improve care and monitoring for these patients to prevent complications.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

73 male participants with traumatic spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level III, Retrospective pilot study

Key Findings

1
65.7% of patients had a normal ultrasound scan.
2
Bladder trabeculation was the most common abnormality, found in 15.1% of the subjects.
3
Hydronephrosis was observed in 12.3% of the participants.

Research Summary

This retrospective study assessed the incidence of renal tract abnormalities using ultrasonography (US) in a military cohort with traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI). The study found that 65% of TSCI participants had no renal tract abnormality on US scan, with bladder trabeculation being the most common finding. Long-term supervised rehabilitation may help achieve good renal quality of life; however, further prospective trials are required on this subject.

Practical Implications

Improved Monitoring

Regular ultrasound screenings can help detect early signs of renal tract abnormalities in TSCI patients, allowing for timely intervention.

Optimized Bladder Management

The study suggests a potential association between reflex voiding and bladder trabeculation, indicating a need for closer supervision of abdominal pressure during voiding maneuvers.

Rehabilitation Strategies

Long-term, supervised institutional rehabilitation may contribute to better renal health outcomes in TSCI patients.

Study Limitations

1
Relatively small sample size
2
Retrospective design
3
Lack of consideration for renal function, UTIs, pharmacological treatment, and urodynamic findings

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