Restoration of bladder, bowel, and sexual function

Abstract

Restoration of significant bladder, bowel, and sexual function to some people with spinal cord injury (SCI) by using electrical stimulation is now a clinical reality. Stimulation of sacral parasympathetic nerves can produce safe and effective micturition long term, with significantly reduced urine infection and catheter usage, and can reduce constipation and the time taken for a bowel program. Electroejaculation can now produce viable semen from the majority of men with SCI. Some of these techniques have been shown to reduce complications, reduce usage of medications and appliances, and improve health and quality of life, and they have the potential to produce significant cost savings.