SACRAL RHIZOTOMIES AND ELECTRICAL BLADDER STIMULATION IN SPINAL-CORD INJURY .1. CLINICAL AND URODYNAMIC ANALYSIS

Objectives: To present the clinical and urodynamic results of the trea tment of neurogenic bladder dysfunction in spinal cord injury by sacra l rhizotomies and electrical bladder stimulation with the Finetech-Bri ndley stimulator during a 3-year inclusion and study period, Methods: 226 patients with spinal cord lesion and urological problems due to hy perreflexia of the bladder were screened for sacral rhizotomies and el ectrical bladder stimulation, In 52 patients complete posterior sacral root rhizotomies were performed and a Finetech-Brindley sacral anteri or root stimulator implanted. All patients were screened and followed with a standard protocol, Results: Complete continence during daytime was achieved in 73% of patients with 6-month followup and in 86% at ni ght, Significant increase in bladder capacity and bladder compliance w as achieved in all patients. Residual urine was reduced significantly, resulting in a decrease of the incidence of urinary tract infections. Conclusions: The treatment of neurogenic bladder dysfunction in spina l cord injury by anterior sacral root stimulation with the Finetech-Br indley stimulator in combination with sacral posterior root rhizotomy produces excellent results with limited morbidity.