UROLOGIC LONG-TERM SURVEILLANCE OF PATIEN TS WITH MENINGOMYELOCELE .1. DIAGNOSTICS

Neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction in patients with meningomyelo cele is a common problem. For appropriate treatment of vesicourethral dysfunction, urodynamic evaluation is essential. Computerized analysis of pressure and flow can differentiate precisely between functional a nd anatomical bladder outlet obstruction and disorders of detrusor con tractility. Bladder compliance, urethral opening pressure, passive and dynamic urethral resistance correlation determine the risk of upper u rinary tract dysfunction. Routine follow-up evaluations should include urodynamics and nuclear kidney function studies.