Evaluate the impact of neurogenic bladder in veterans with traumatic spinal cord injury.

OBJECTIVE

This observational study aimed to determine the prevalence of neurogenic bladder (NGB), and its impact (frequency of urinary tract infection [UTI], autonomic dysreflexia (AD) pressure ulcers, spasticity, and hospitalization rates) on veterans with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI).

BACKGROUND

NGB (detrusor muscle and urethral sphincter dysfunction with loss of bladder sensation to void), secondary to SCI, is commonly encountered in daily practice; however, its impact on veterans' overall health has been less well studied.

METHOD: We retrospectively reviewed the electronic charts of veterans with SCI enrolled in our program and regularly followed in our SCI clinic. Demographic data collected included: age, sex, race/ethnicity, and age, level, severity and cause of spinal injury. Also noted was presence of NGB, episodes of UTI, presence of pressure ulcers, AD, spasticity, and hospitalization rate. Differences between those with and without NGB were evaluated using Generalized Linear Models.

RESULTS

Of 161 veterans with SCI, symptoms of NGB was present in 133 (83%). Presence of NGB was associated with severe spinal cord injury. Veterans with NGB had more frequent UTI and presence of pressure ulcers (P < 0.05). They also were more likely to need hospitalization and were at an increased risk of dying.

CONCLUSION

Incidence of NGB in veterans with SCI is high, is mainly associated with severe spinal cord injury, and severely impacts veterans' health by frequently causing UTIs, increasing hospitalization rate, and increases risk of death.