A proposed guideline for the urological management of patients with spinal cord injury

BJU Int. 2008 Apr;101(8):989-94. doi: 10.1111/j.1464-410X.2008.07457.x. Epub 2008 Feb 15.

Abstract

Objective: To develop a guideline for the urological management of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods: The existing practice in the UK was evaluated by a series of expert meetings. Previous publications on the subject were evaluated, and the information synthesized to produce a proposed guideline.

Results: The literature review showed limited good-quality data. As a result of the process a series of research questions was produced, the answers to which would allow a guideline to be established based on good-quality evidence. In the absence of high-quality evidence, the guideline was constructed using expert opinion. Urological care is described in the immediate, intermediate and long-term phases after SCI.

Conclusion: The urological consequences of SCI can be devastating. Urological care is an important part of the holistic care of these patients, and should be delivered from SCI centres through a network of qualified clinicians.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Quality of Life*
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / complications*
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / psychology
  • Urinary Catheterization
  • Urination Disorders / psychology
  • Urination Disorders / therapy*
  • Urodynamics