Developing new ways to assess neural control of pelvic organ function in spinal conditions: ICI-RS 2023

Objectives: Several central nervous system (CNS) centers affect muscle groups of the lower urinary tract (LUT) and anorectal tract (ART) via autonomic and somatic pathways, working in different modes (storage or expulsion). Hence spinal cord dysfunction can affect the LUT and ART by several possible mechanisms. Methods: This review reports the discussions of a workshop at the 2023 meeting of the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society, which reviewed uncertainties and research priorities of spinal dysfunction. Results: Discussion focussed on the levator ani nerve, mechanisms underpinning sensory function and sensation, functional imaging, dyssynergia, and experimental models. The following key research questions were identified. (1) Clinically, how can we evaluate the levator ani muscle to support assessment and identify prognosis for effective treatment selection? (2) How can we reliably measure levator ani tone? (3) How can we evaluate sensory information and sensation for the LUT and the ART? (4) What is the role of functional CNS imaging in development of scientific insights and clinical evaluation? (5) What is the relationship of detrusor sphincter dyssynergia to renal failure? Conclusions: Spinal cord dysfunction can fundamentally disrupt LUT and ART function, with considerable clinical impact. The evaluation needs to reflect the full scope of potential problems, and new clinical and diagnostic approaches are needed, for prognosis and treatment. The preclinical science evaluating spinal cord function in both LUT and ART storage and elimination remains a major priority, even though it is a challenging experimental context. Without this underpinning evidence, development of new clinical evidence may be held back

Revision cup arthroplasty using Burch-Schneider anti-protrusio cage

From 1986 until 1995 we used the Burch-Schneider anti-protrusio cage in 31 patients (33 hips) and followed the patients for 5 years. Five patients died within the 5-year follow-up. Clinical outcome listed an average Harris hip score of 71/70/66 points after 1, 2 and 5 years respectively. One patient had a revision due to late-onset haematogenous infection. We found cup migration in nine patients. Migration was self-limiting in three cases and in two there was no bony graft ingrowth. Screw breakage was seen in one case. All migrated cages showed a higher rotational centre than cages without migration