FOLLOW-UP OF CLEAN INTERMITTENT CATHETERIZATION FOR CHILDREN WITH NEUROGENIC BLADDERS

Intermittent catheterization remains the primary method of treatment i n the management of patients with neurogenic bladders such as those wi th meningomyelocele. In a follow-up of a previous study, we re-examine d the urologic status of patients with neurogenic bladders continuing on a regimen of clean intermittent catheterization five years after th e completion of the first study. Thirty-seven of the original 49 patie nts were available for follow-up, and no significant differences were found between those lost to follow-up and those included in this study . Among the patients re-evaluated, reflux remained unchanged or improv ed in most patients, renal function was maintained, and the urinary tr act infection rate remained low. Additionally, continuation of an inte rmittent catheterization program does provide independence and social continence in most young adults with meningomyelocele. We conclude tha t a long-term intermittent catheterization program is associated with stable reflux status, renal function, and infection rate, and that com pliance with a catheterization program can result in improved social c ontinence and independence.