Study design: Retrospective study.
Objective: To examine the functional results and effect on quality of life of continent cutaneous urinary diversion in spinal cord injured patients.
Setting: Department of Urology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden.
Subjects: A total of 10 patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Method: The patients were operated on with an ileal reservoir (Kock reservoir or T-pouch), Cr-EDTA clearance was determined preoperatively and at follow-up. The patients answered a questionnaire concerning reservoir function, various activities and quality of life. The patient charts were reviewed.
Results: One patient died of pulmonary embolism 3 years after surgery. Two patients were reoperated on for reservoir perforation. All patients were satisfied/very satisfied with their reservoirs. Half of them reported improved ability to perform various activities. Eight out of nine patients reported improved quality of life.
Conclusion: For a selected group of patients with SCI, continent cutaneous urinary diversion provides successful outcome with improved quality of life.