Impact of an intermittent catheterization program on children with myelomeningocele.
Among 164 children being followed in a myelomeningocele clinic, 85 (52%) are on an intermittent catheterization program (ICP). Among 53 children on ICP for 5 years or more, a high percentage have achieved satisfactory dryness, decreased frequency of urinary tract infection, and improvement in renal status. The potential for improved well-being afforded by ICP is one factor that should be considered in decisions about "active" or "supportive" treatment in newborn infants with myelomeningocele.
D002648:Child; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008591:Meningomyelocele / Q000628:therapy*; D013997:Time Factors; D014546:Urinary Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000628:therapy; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy