Calculi in the urinary system are increased in the spinal cord injury population and occur more frequently in patients with frequent UTIs, indwelling catheters and immobilization hyperclciuria. Lack of sensation in the bladder decreases the likelihood of the usual symptoms such as pain. Increased limb spasticity, increased episodes of autonomic dysreflexia and bloody urine are more common symptoms associated with this diagnosis.

Treatment of Calculi
Treatment of calculi (stones) within the urinary tract in spinal cord injury patients is similar to treatments used in able bodied individuals. These treatments are best managed by a knowledgeable Urologist. Small stones may pass with increased fluid intake. Unless there is severe pain associated with the passage of the stone pain medications are not generally prescribed.

Calculi which do not pass easily or are blocking the flow of urine must be managed with more aggressive treatments. The most common intervention, Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), is the less invasive.

Renal Stones which do not respond to the lithostripsy method are typically treated with Ureteroscopy.