Myelomeningocele and Bladder Function in a 3-Month-Old Male

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Explain how lumbosacral myelomeningocele affects the spinal column nerves.

It disrupts the nerves in the spinal column due to an opening in the backbone through which the spinal cord and meninges protrude.

What is the significance of disrupted spinal column nerves for bladder function in a 3-month-old with myelomeningocele?

Disrupted nerves can lead to neurogenic bladder dysfunction, affecting the child's ability to control voiding.

How might neurogenic bladder dysfunction manifest in a 3-month-old with lumbosacral myelomeningocele?

It could present as urinary incontinence, urinary retention, or dribbling of urine.

Discuss the implications of neurogenic bladder dysfunction for the long-term management of a 3-month-old with myelomeningocele.

Long-term management may involve intermittent catheterization, pharmacotherapy, or surgical interventions to optimize bladder function. Signup and view all the answers

How can parents of a 3-month-old with lumbosacral myelomeningocele support bladder function in their child?

Parents can assist with timed voiding, monitoring urine output, and following the urologist's recommendations for bladder care. Signup and view all the answers

What are the potential storage symptoms associated with detrusor sphincter dyssynergia?

Urinary urgency, incontinence, increased daytime frequency Signup and view all the answers

How can detrusor sphincter dyssynergia affect the flow of urine?

It can hinder urine flow by increasing bladder pressure. Signup and view all the answers

What are some neurogenic bowel problems commonly experienced by people with spinal cord injuries?

Constipation, faecal retention, faecal incontinence Signup and view all the answers

How do bladder and bowel problems interact in individuals with spinal cord injuries?

Functional interaction is inevitable due to the proximity of the bladder and bowel. Signup and view all the answers

What are some complications in bladder function that can arise from disrupted spinal column nerves?

Underactive or overactive bladder, detrusor sphincter dyssynergia Signup and view all the answers

Why is proper diagnosis and treatment essential for individuals with spinal cord injuries experiencing bladder complications?

To manage complications and improve quality of life. Signup and view all the answers

What are the symptoms of an underactive bladder in individuals with spinal cord injuries?

Urinary hesitancy, poor or intermittent stream, residual urine Signup and view all the answers

Describe the characteristics of a reflex, or spastic, bladder in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Involuntary contractions, urinary urgency, frequency, incontinence Signup and view all the answers

How can damage to the nerves responsible for bladder control lead to neurogenic bladder dysfunction?

By affecting the regulation of bladder function by the central and peripheral nervous systems Signup and view all the answers

Explain the impact of an underactive bladder on the risk of urinary tract infections in those with spinal cord injuries.

Increased risk due to incomplete bladder emptying and residual urine Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a flaccid bladder from a spastic bladder in individuals with spinal cord injuries?

Flaccid bladder: non-reflex, lack of sensation when full; Spastic bladder: reflex, involuntary contractions Signup and view all the answers

How does an overactive bladder impact the quality of life of individuals with spinal cord injuries?

Causes urinary urgency, frequency, incontinence, affecting daily activities Signup and view all the answers

Myelomeningocele and Bladder Function in a 3-Month-Old Male

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