Managing neurogenic bowel dysfunction after spinal cord injury

Abstract

Spinal cord injury is a serious injury that can result in a series of complications that will impact the injured individual and their families. One of these complications is bowel dysfunction. The individual with spinal cord injury could have a total loss of bowel function and control post-injury, which can result in pain and discomfort. Establishing a safe and sustainable bowel programme is essential to controlling bowel movement and improving overall quality of life. The aims of this article are to provide healthcare professionals with an understanding of the impact of spinal cord injury on bowel function and to help establish a successful bowel programme for patients. In particular, how spinal cord injury affects and impacts bowel control; establishing goals of a bowel management programme for individuals; reviewing factors involved in establishing a successful bowel management regimen following spinal cord injury.