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Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran

Consultant Pediatric Urologist in Hyderabad

Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran

Consultant Pediatric Urologist in Hyderabad

Understanding Neurogenic Bladder in Children

Understanding Neurogenic Bladder in Children

Neurogenic bladder is a condition in which the nerve supply to the bladder is affected. This disruption often occurs due to congenital abnormalities in the spine, operative procedures carried out on the spine, or, in rare cases, trauma to the spine. Children with this condition may develop an abnormal pattern of urination, urinary infections and in severe cases, high pressures in the bladder can affect the upper kidneys, leading to further complications.

Early Detection and Treatment

Early medical attention by a Pediatric Urologist is crucial to manage neurogenic bladder effectively. The goal of treatment is to streamline the voiding pattern to protect the kidneys and maintain a healthy urinary system. Treatment options include:

  1. Bowel management:
    • To avoid and manage constipation
  2. Medications:
    • Used to relax the bladder or control bladder contractions.
  3. Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC):
    • A technique to empty the bladder regularly and prevent high pressures.
  4. BOTOX Bladder Injections:
    • Administered to reduce overactive bladder muscle activity.
  5. Augmentation Cystoplasty:
    • A surgical procedure to enhance bladder volume using segments of the intestine, allowing for better bladder function.

Causes

The primary causes of neurogenic bladder in children include:

  • Spinal Abnormalities: Congenital conditions like spina bifida can disrupt the nerve signals to the bladder.
  • Operative Procedures on the Spine: Surgeries involving the spine may inadvertently affect the nerve supply to the bladder.
  • Trauma to the Spine: Rare cases where accidents or injuries damage spinal nerves.
  • Low Folic Acid Intake During Pregnancy: Insufficient folic acid during pregnancy can lead to abnormal spinal column development, increasing the risk of neurogenic bladder in children.

Symptoms

Parents and caregivers should be alert to the following signs that might indicate neurogenic bladder in children:

  • Lump in the Back: A visible or palpable lump over the spine.
  • Abnormal Back Appearance: Deformities or unusual features along the spine like tuft of hair, sinuses and discoloration of skin.
  • Abnormal Walking Pattern: Difficulty or irregularities in the way the child walks.

Contact Us

If your child shows any signs or symptoms of neurogenic bladder or spinal abnormalities, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.

For more information or to book an appointment, consult: Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, Consultant Pediatric Urologist and Robotic Surgeon, Hyderabad.

Visit: www.drprabhukarunakaran.com.

 

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