Internal research found that patients, who visited ISIC from other hospitals after spinal surgery, 90 per cent of them had never been referred to a neuro-urologist
A campaign for complete care of bladder and other complications resulted in the establishment of neuro-urological department in the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre (ISIC). According to Neuro-urologists at ISIC, there are a large number of cases came to them where post-spinal cord injury (SCI) surgery patients were never referred to a neuro-urologist. Internal research found that patients, who visited ISIC from other hospitals after spinal surgery, 90 per cent of them had never been referred to a neuro-urologist.
Announcing the launch, the Director of Neuro-urology and SCI Andrology, ISIC Dr Dinesh Suman said, “We have a large number of case studies. We have also been running a ‘Neglected Blader’ Campaign. In fact, patients who undergo spinal cord injury surgery at various centers, are usually not referred to any appropriate neuro urological services. Our problems are multiplied when they come to us. Hence, we have been getting neglected bladders. In this campaign, we aim to give such patients an opportunity to come to our Centre for treatment and rehabilitation. ISIC’s internal research finds that patients, who visited us from other hospitals after spinal surgery, 90 per cent of them had never been referred to a neuro-urologist.”
With the establishment of the neuro-urology department, ISIC aims to advance the field of neuro-urology and enhance patient outcomes.
Highlighting the importance of the newly established department Dr Suman, said, “We’re extremely excited to have launched the department. With over two decades of high-quality services offered by ISIC, now we will be motivated to expand our services to an even higher level of care for a larger number of patients, addressing their specific needs and improving their quality of life.”
Dr Suman expressed concern over the lack of focus on urinary issues and the prevailing myths and taboos surrounding personal problems in our country. He highlighted that common urinary problems often lead to repeated symptoms of urinary incontinence, uncontrolled urine flow, recurrent infections, and complications such as kidney stones and kidney failure. These repeated complications result in frequent hospital visits and prolonged treatment, placing a significant burden on patients. Furthermore, patients often shy away from discussing sexual and fertility problems, leading to neglect of these important aspects of their health.
“Our aim is to eliminate the need for patients to navigate multiple healthcare providers and ensure that their urinary concerns are addressed effectively. The department operates on the principles of the 3Ps (Prompt, Pre-emptive, and Preventive care), emphasising timely intervention and proactive measures,” added Dr Suman.
The department will offer a range of services, from early care to advanced evaluation and management along with counseling, education, training, and distance support to the SCI patients and their caregivers even during the longer-term follow-up.