A proposed guideline for the urological management of patients with spinal cord injury.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a guideline for the urological management of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHODS

The existing practice in the UK was evaluated by a series of expert meetings. Previous publications on the subject were evaluated, and the information synthesized to produce a proposed guideline.

RESULTS

The literature review showed limited good-quality data. As a result of the process a series of research questions was produced, the answers to which would allow a guideline to be established based on good-quality evidence. In the absence of high-quality evidence, the guideline was constructed using expert opinion. Urological care is described in the immediate, intermediate and long-term phases after SCI.

CONCLUSION

The urological consequences of SCI can be devastating. Urological care is an important part of the holistic care of these patients, and should be delivered from SCI centres through a network of qualified clinicians.