Urologie pro praxi 4/2024

Urological care of a spinal patient from the perspective of a rehabilitation doctor Urologist as part of multidisciplinary team

Spinal cord injury is one of the most serious disabilities interfering with a number of the body’s physiological systems. The management of spinal patients is challenging, requiring a multidisciplinary approach and specialized care. For this reason, a spinal programme has been established in the Czech Republic for more than 20 years. Proper urological care is important immediately after the injury. During the stay at spinal rehabilitation units, it is tailored to the particular individual. It is always based on a thorough urological evaluation as well as functional and cognitive abilities of the patient. Collaboration between the rehabilitation team and urologist is essential. On discharge from the rehabilitation facility, the patient is put on a safe method of urinary diversion and educated in the basic issues of neurogenic bladder and potential complications. The need for lifelong urological surveillance is emphasized.

Keywords: spinal cord lesion, spinal programme, overactive detrusor, intermittent catheterization.