Bowel dysfunction following spinal cord injury.
METHODS
Review.


OBJECTIVE
To outline the present knowledge of bowel dysfunction following spinal injury, and look at future directions of management and research.


METHODS
Spinal Unit and Colorectal Unit, Christchurch, New Zealand.


METHODS
Review.


RESULTS
The underlying physiology of colorectal motility and defecation is reviewed, and consequences of spinal cord injury on defecation are reported. A discussion of present management techniques is undertaken and new directions in management and research are suggested.


CONCLUSIONS
There is need for more intervention in regard to bowel function that could improve quality of life, but there is also a need for more research in this area.
Lynch
A C
AC
Spinal Injuries Unit, Burwood Hospital, Department of Surgery, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Antony
A
A
Dobbs
B R
BR
Frizelle
F A
FA
D001003:Anal Canal / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D003106:Colon / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology; D017615:Enteric Nervous System / Q000502:physiology*; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D005769:Gastrointestinal Motility / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D012007:Rectum / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000150:complications*