Impact of an intermittent catheterization program on children with myelomeningocele.

Among 164 children being followed in a myelomeningocele clinic, 85 (52%) are on an intermittent catheterization program (ICP). Among 53 children on ICP for 5 years or more, a high percentage have achieved satisfactory dryness, decreased frequency of urinary tract infection, and improvement in renal status. The potential for improved well-being afforded by ICP is one factor that should be considered in decisions about "active" or "supportive" treatment in newborn infants with myelomeningocele.