Intermittent clean self-catheterization in clients with neurogenic bladder resulting from multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Urology

Background:

• Urinary retention is a significant complication for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
• Bladder dysfunction affects up to 90% of individuals with MS.
• Neurogenic bladder is a common issue in MS, necessitating effective management strategies.

Observation:

• Intermittent clean self-catheterization (ICSC) is increasingly adopted by MS patients with neurogenic bladder.
• This technique's efficacy and challenges in the MS population require thorough examination.
• Case studies provide real-world insights into the application of ICSC in MS.

Findings:

• The literature review and case studies explore the success rates of ICSC in managing MS-related urinary retention.
• Identified challenges associated with ICSC include patient adherence, potential for infection, and practical difficulties.
• The effectiveness of ICSC varies among individuals, influenced by disease severity and personal factors.

Implications:

• Effective management of urinary retention is crucial to prevent severe complications in MS patients.
• ICSC can be a viable option for some MS patients, but requires careful patient selection and education.
• Further research is needed to optimize ICSC protocols and address patient-specific challenges in MS care.