Management of Spinal Cord Injured Patients by Indwelling Suprapubic Catheterization

PURPOSE: We review the urological complications in spinal cord injury patients treated with suprapubic catheterization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Suprapubic catheterization was used in 44 spinal cord injury patients. Followup ranged from 12 to 150 months (mean 58). The catheters were irrigated weekly and changed every 2 weeks. Patients were followed annually with urodynamic studies and ultrasound. RESULTS: No patient had renal deterioration, vesicoureteral reflux or bladder carcinoma. The incidences of incontinence, urinary tract infections and calculi were acceptable. CONCLUSIONS: Suprapubic catheterization is an effective and safe alternative form of bladder management in select patients with spinal cord injury.