Focused Review Course: Spinal Cord Injury-SCI Management and Medical Complications

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Management of common and serious medical complications of spinal cord injury is discussed in this video. The focus is on neurogenic bladder and neurogenic bowel. In terms of bladder management, the goals are to preserve renal function, maintain social continence, and prevent urinary tract complications. Different approaches are recommended for different types of bladder dysfunction, such as detrusor areflexia, detrusor hyperreflexia, and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia. Urodynamic testing is suggested for evaluation. The prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections and stones are also emphasized. For bowel management, creating a bowel program is important. The program includes diet, fluid intake, and activity, with a goal of maintaining fecal continence, minimizing gastrointestinal complaints, and promoting predictable and effective elimination. Different approaches are recommended based on the presence or absence of bowel reflexes. Autonomic dysreflexia, a potentially dangerous condition, is also discussed, with steps for treatment including identifying and correcting underlying causes and initiating pharmacologic treatment if necessary. Orthostatic hypotension and its management are briefly mentioned.

Keywords

spinal cord injury

neurogenic bladder

neurogenic bowel

bladder management

bowel program

autonomic dysreflexia