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[Anna l1]

I am an L1 incomplete (3 years post). I am considering having a cystoplasty. I had some sphincter muscle control after my injury but seem to be unable to find the muscle now - don't know why. I seem to be able to release from my bladder at will (although not very easily) but I could be using the wrong muscle. I have a very small bladder capacity. I have recently had Botox injections that have helped keep me dry but my bladder still tells me that i need the toilet at a very low capacity although I can ignore it and not yet wet - the only thing being that my bladder fills up really fast. Any suggestions as to what I should do? Has anyone had the operation? I am a bit apprehensive.

Anna

[wheels5894]

I had this done some while ago to help keep leaks down as I use a supra-pubic catheter. Almost certainly you will end up not being able to empty the bladder as the operation messes up the muscular action of the bladder, deliberately.The result is that you will a larger capacity but may well have to use Intermittent catheterizeation ISC to empty the bladder out.

I suppose the only other way to deal with things is to use a collection system or pads but that can be messy. I suggest you chat more with the doctor and be careful to ask about any other treatments that might be available to you.

I am quite happy with mine but I am a much higher lesion and am wheelchair based.