Incidence of bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction post spinal surgery
Mia Adam1, Jimena Garcia-Vega1, Alanna Barwood1, Lisa van der Lee1,21Physiotherapy Department, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, 2Department of Allied Health, FSFHG & Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia
Abstract
Background
Bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction can be caused by spinal cord injury resulting from trauma, disc herniation, inflammation, haematomas, tumours and Cauda Equina Syndrome.There is little documented incidence of bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction post-spinal surgery, which can negatively impact patient’s quality of life. On the whole these symptoms are poorly identified and monitored after discharge from the acute service at SCGH, aside from ad-hoc input for acute bladder management.
Aim
To identify the incidence of bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction post-spinal surgery and determine the appropriateness of the use of an adapted version of the validated Pelvic Floor Bother Questionnaire (Adapted PFBQ) as a tool to screen for these symptoms.
Method
Patients admitted to the spinal ward over a 6-month period who consent to participate will be included. Participants will be screened for bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction via the Adapted PFBQ pre-operatively (retrospectively), immediately post-operatively, and at 6 and 12 weeks post-surgery. Those who report dysfunction that is bothersome will be referred accordingly for appropriate follow-up.
Results
It is hypothesised that the incidence of bladder, bowel or sexual dysfunction post-op will be more common than anticipated. This may help to guide additional education and information provided to patients and ensure onward referral for appropriate management in the community.
Conclusion
Predicted benefits of this project are the identification of the incidence of bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction, and the timely referral and management which will improve patient’s quality of life and promote a prompt return to normal function.
Biography
Mia is an acting senior physiotherapist who has been part of the neurosciences team at SCGH and OPH for the last 3 years. Mia has gained significant experience in the management of neurological patients in the acute and rehab settings.