Needs, priorities, and attitudes of individuals with spinal cord injury toward nerve stimulation devices for bladder and bowel function: A survey

Spinal Cord, 2020 · DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-00545-w · Published: November 1, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Urology Gastroenterology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the needs and priorities of people with spinal cord injury (SCI) regarding bladder and bowel function. It also looks at their willingness to use nerve stimulation devices to manage these functions. The study found that people with SCI prioritize bladder emptying without catheters and maintaining fecal continence. They also have concerns about the inconvenience and risks associated with both external and implanted nerve stimulation systems. Overall, individuals with SCI are willing to consider nerve stimulation approaches to improve bladder and bowel function, but their concerns and preferences need to be considered in the development of these technologies.

Study Duration

2 Months (June 28 to August 29, 2018)

Participants

370 individuals with spinal cord injury (27% female, 73% male)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Bladder emptying without catheters was the top priority for restoring bladder function for those surveyed.
2
Maintaining fecal continence was the top priority for restoring bowel function.
3
Respondents were more willing to accept an external device (61%) than an implanted device (41%) to achieve improved bladder or bowel function.

Research Summary

This study aimed to understand the needs and priorities of individuals with SCI regarding bladder and bowel management and their willingness to use neuromodulation interventions. The survey results indicated that bladder and bowel dysfunction remain significant challenges for individuals with SCI, and they are open to nerve stimulation approaches despite potential risks. The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating consumer input in research and development of personalized medicine solutions for bladder and bowel dysfunction in SCI.

Practical Implications

Research Direction

Focus research and development on technologies that enable bladder emptying without catheters and maintain fecal continence.

Device Design

Address concerns regarding the inconvenience of external devices and the risks associated with implanted devices in the design of nerve stimulation systems.

Personalized Medicine

Consider individual functional needs and preferences when developing and implementing nerve stimulation approaches for bladder and bowel management in SCI.

Study Limitations

1
The survey was disseminated via the internet, which may have missed disadvantaged individuals who lack internet access.
2
The sample may not be fully representative of the entire SCI population due to self-selection bias.
3
The study did not collect data on AIS grade or lesion level, which could have provided additional context.

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