Abstract
SUMMARY: The physiological and clinical basis for the use of continuous urethral catheter drainage in the initial management of traumatic paraplegia is presented, and the application of the method is described in detail.The value of cystometry as a guide to the correct use of a catheter regime is illustrated.The results of this method of management in a small group of patients are summarised.I would like to acknowledge the skill and care exercised by Mr G. F. Murnaghan in the urological management of the patients in the Spinal Injuries Unit at Edenhall Hospital.