Long-term Management of Neurogenic Bladder: An Eclectic Approach

Whatever form of bladder management is used, there must be careful long-term follow-up and willingness to recognize potential for complications with any management program.

Abstract

Long-term bladder management requires a thoughtful approach that takes into account not only the bladder dysfunction but the patient's social, vocational and rehabilitation needs. Long-term goals include providing for satisfactory bladder emptying, control of urinary incontinence, and preservation of upper urinary tract function. Whatever form of bladder management is used, there must be careful long-term follow-up and willingness to recognize potential for complications with any management program. These complications may be due to changes in bladder function, lack of patient compliance with management programs, and failure to obtain appropriate follow-up examinations. Close cooperation between physiatrists and urologists permits the best integration of bladder management into the overall rehabilitation program.