Affiliations: Division of Urology, Children's Memorial Hospital,
Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Dr. Jennie Mickelson, Northwestern
University's Feinberg School of Medicine, Division of Urology, Children's
Memorial Hospital, 2300 Children's Plaza, #24, Chicago, IL 60614, USA. Tel.:
+1 773 880 4428; Fax: +1 773 880 3339; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Myelodysplasia is a complex patient problem that continues to
present challenges for multidisciplinary care teams. The spectrum of bladder
and bowel dysfunction created by this neurologic lesion is broad and requires
long-term surveillance of these organ systems. This review outlines the
diagnosis and management of urologic issues of the spina bifida patient
throughout infancy, childhood and adolescence. Specifically, examining
different approaches to care of these patients (proactive vs reactive), quality
of life issues and medical and surgical management options and decision-making
at each phase of life.
