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Intermittent catheterisation in the management of children with neuropathic bladder
Lancet (London, England)
|November 4, 1978
Insights
Intermittent catheterization improved dryness in most children with neuropathic bladder. This treatment also eased caregiver burden and promoted independence in some patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Neuropathic bladder affects children, leading to urinary incontinence.
- Management often requires interventions to maintain continence and protect renal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of intermittent catheterization in children with neuropathic bladder.
- To assess the impact on urinary continence, infections, and caregiver burden.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 23 children with neuropathic bladder treated with intermittent catheterization over 3 years.
- Data collected on continence status, urinary tract infections, and patient/caregiver independence.
Main Results:
- 12 children achieved practical dryness, and 9 showed improvement.
- Urinary infections were not a major issue; long-term renal effects are pending.
- Caregiver burden was reduced, with 4 children self-catheterizing and 2 achieving independence.
Conclusions:
- Intermittent catheterization is an effective treatment for improving continence in pediatric neuropathic bladder.
- The procedure offers benefits beyond continence, including reduced caregiver burden and enhanced child independence.
- Further long-term studies are needed to assess renal outcomes.
Abstract:
Twenty-three children with neuropathic bladder have been treated by intermittent catheterisation during the past 3 years. Twelve are now practically dry, nine are drier than before, and two have remained wet. Urinary infections have not been a major problem, but it is too soon to assess the long-term effects on the upper renal tract. Intermittent catheterisation lightens the burden for the mothers. Four children catheterise themselves and two of them are now independent.