The paraplegic - intermittent catheterization and other advances

Intermittent catheterization has been well described and found to be very successful in the management of what is possibly the major cause of severe illness, even death, in paraplegia - namely bladder infection. It is an extremely simple technique to introduce and contrary to widespread opinion, does not entail a great deal of time and effort. The time and effort spent treating urinary tract infections, not to mention the drug costs, can be astronomical. Many simplifications have been described, and the patient usually needs one or two consultations before he becomes an expert in the technique of self-catheterization. Unfortunately some spinal units and doctors are slow to introduce this technique. This is a very grave mistake as the well-being of the paralysed patient can be greatly facilitated by its diligent use. Early stabilization of the spine is also discussed.