Identifying potential problems with intermittent self-catheterisation in patients with neurological conditions

Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is common in patients with neurological conditions and can result in loss of voluntary control and a bladder that cannot empty fully or at all. LUTD causes urinary frequency, urgency and incontinence and can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life as well as presenting a significant risk of damage to the upper renal tract due to urine backflow. Intermittent catheterisation (IC) is the insertion and removal of a catheter several times a day to ensure that the bladder is emptied. Intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) is the preferred option for the management of residual urine resulting from lower urinary tract dysfunction. ISC is not without risk of potential complications, although these can be reduced by effective and timely patient education