Introduction
Persons with spinal cord injury
(SCI) commonly encounter problems with urinary and bladder function. These problems
can result in urinary incontinence, increased urinary tract infections (UTIs),
bladder stones and other lower urinary tract disorders. They can also potentially
lead to kidney deterioration, failure and even death.
Current data indicates
that:
- Diseases of the urinary
system currently account for 3.5% of deaths among individuals with SCI.
- Diseases of the urinary
system are contributing factors in another 5.2% of deaths.
- Individuals with SCI
are 10.9% more likely to die from diseases of the urinary system. (Gragg,
2003)
It is clear that identification
of the type of voiding dysfunction, appropriate bladder management and follow-up
are essential to the acute and longterm health of the patient with SCI.
SCI-Info-Pages
has a great glossary for your reference.
Please
click SCI
Glossary and consult as needed!