The use of the neurologic exam to predict awareness and control of lower urinary tract function post SCI.

STUDY

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether T11-L2 sensation is significantly associated with perception of bladder filling and whether S3-S5 sensation is significantly associated with potential for voluntary voiding after spinal cord injury (SCI).

SETTING

Alabama, United States.

METHODS

A total of 79 men and women with SCI, and 40 able-bodied (AB) subjects, ages 19-60, seen in an outpatient academic medical center clinic, underwent International Standards for Neurological Classification of SCI (ISNCSCI) assessment along with urodynamic testing to assess lower urinary tract (LUT) function. X2 test was performed to compare: (1) bladder sensation across T11-L2 groups classified by total sensory scores and (2) ability to voluntarily void across S3-S5 scores.

RESULTS

Persons with greater ability to perceive pinprick and light touch sensation in the T11-L2 dermatomes were more likely to perceive bladder filling both via self-report and by urodynamics. However, persons with greater sensation at T6-T9 and S3-5 also had a greater likelihood of perceiving bladder filling. Subjects with greater preservation of sensation in S3-5 reported greater ability to initiate and control voiding.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest ISNCSCI results along with self-report can be used to predict potential for bladder control.

SPONSORSHIP: National Institute of Disability and Rehabilitation Research.