Purpose: To study the significance of filling cystometry with pressure flow studies and bladder
electromyography (EMG) in assessment and management of neurogenic bladder with myelopathies
and evaluated neurological recovery in the follow-up period. Methods: The study was a 3-year prospective urodynamic study in 63 patients, with traumatic
and nontraumatic myelopathy. Bladder management was advised based on the cystometric
findings. Neurological recovery and mode of bladder management were evaluated during
follow-up after a minimum of 6 months. Results: Mean age was 44.6 years (range 10–80 years). Thoracolumbar area was most commonly
involved. Cystometry revealed overactive detrusor in 46 patients, (17 had detrusor
sphincter dyssynergia [DSD], 29 without DSD) and areflexic/underactive detrusor in
9 patients. Postvoid residual (>15% of voided urine) was significant in 27 patients.
Neurological recovery was seen in 60.3%, whereas 22.2% showed no improvement (partial
improvement in 4.8%) and 12.6% had normal bladder function both initially and at follow-up.
Correlation between neurological recovery and bladder management was found to be insignificant
(P > 0.05) using spearman's correlation coefficient. Conclusion: Filling cystometry with pressure flow studies and EMG study is valuable for the assessment
and management of neurogenic bladder in patients with myelopathy. In neurogenic bladder
management and follow-up, pressure flow studies help to prevent complications and
upper urinary tract complications.
Key-words:
Compressive myelopathy - filling cystometry - neurogenic bladder - radiculopathy -
spinal injury - urodynamic study