Textbook Question
Normal urine should have which of the following properties? Circle all that apply.
a. Translucency
b. Yellowish pigment
c. Cloudy appearance
d. pH less than 4.5
314
views
25. The Urinary System
Renal Physiology Step 1: Glomerular Filtration
2:31 minutesProblem 23
Textbook Question
While repairing a frayed utility wire, Kevin, an experienced lineman, slips and falls to the ground. Medical examination reveals a fracture of his lower spine and transection of the lumbar region of the spinal cord. How will Kevin's micturition be controlled from this point on? Will he ever again feel the need to void? Will there be dribbling of urine between voidings? Explain the reasoning behind all your responses.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the anatomy and physiology of the spinal cord and its role in micturition. The lumbar region of the spinal cord contains nerves that are part of the autonomic and somatic control of the bladder. Damage to this area can disrupt voluntary and involuntary control of urination.
Recognize that micturition is controlled by a combination of reflexes and higher brain centers. The spinal cord injury at the lumbar region will likely impair communication between the bladder and the brain, leading to loss of voluntary control over urination.
Explain that Kevin will not feel the need to void because sensory signals from the bladder (indicating fullness) cannot reach the brain due to the transection of the spinal cord. This loss of sensation is a direct result of the injury.
Discuss the possibility of dribbling of urine between voidings. Without proper neural control, the detrusor muscle (responsible for bladder contraction) may contract involuntarily, leading to overflow incontinence or dribbling of urine.
Conclude by explaining that micturition will likely be managed through reflexive emptying of the bladder, which is controlled by the spinal cord below the level of injury. Kevin may require medical interventions such as catheterization or medications to manage urinary function effectively.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
2mWas this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Spinal Cord Function
The spinal cord is a crucial part of the central nervous system that transmits signals between the brain and the body. It plays a significant role in reflex actions and autonomic functions, including micturition. Damage to the spinal cord, particularly in the lumbar region, can disrupt these signals, affecting bladder control and sensation.
Recommended video:
06:04
Functional Groups
Micturition Reflex
The micturition reflex is a complex neural pathway that controls the process of urination. It involves both voluntary and involuntary components, with signals from the bladder to the spinal cord and brain. Injury to the spinal cord can impair this reflex, leading to issues such as loss of sensation and control over urination, which may result in urinary retention or incontinence.
Recommended video:
3:37Stretch Reflex
Autonomic Nervous System
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates involuntary bodily functions, including bladder control. It consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, which work together to manage micturition. Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt the balance of these systems, leading to altered bladder function, such as the inability to sense fullness or control voiding, potentially resulting in dribbling or overflow incontinence.
Recommended video:
1:50Somatic vs. Autonomic Nervous System
4:3mWatch next
Master The Filtration Membane with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice