Intermittent catheterization the right way! (Volume vs. time-directed).

Intermittent catheterization (ICP) is a well-proven effective means of urologic management for spinal cord diseased (SCD) persons who meet the following criteria: adequate low pressure bladder capacity (350-400 cc minimum), adequate hand function, unobstructed urethra and compliant, understanding, continent, cooperative patients. Time-directed (Q4 H-Q6 H), ICP-obtained volumes on twenty-one patients revealed a majority of early, unnecessary as well as some late over-distended bladder catheterizations. The PCI 5000 or "Bladder Manager", a miniaturized ultrasonic bladder volume measuring device developed by Diagnostic Ultrasound of Seattle, was evaluated. It allowed the patients to perform volume-directed ICP which results in less frequent catheterizations and prevents bladder overdistension.