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Bladder outlet obstruction

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

BOO; Lower urinary tract obstruction; Prostatism

Treatment:

Treatment of bladder outlet obstruction depends on the underlying cause of the obstruction. For most cases, a Foley catheter (a tube inserted through the urethra into the bladder) will relieve the obstruction temporarily.

Occasionally, a suprapubic catheter (a catheter through the abdomen into the bladder) is needed to drain the bladder.

Long-term treatment of bladder outlet obstruction is mostly surgical. However, medical treatment options are available for many of the diseases that cause BOO. You should have a thorough discussion of treatment options with your provider.

Expectations (prognosis):

If diagnosed early, most causes of BOO can be treated with great success. However, if diagnosis is delayed, permanent damage can result.

Complications:

Complications of BOO can be devastating. Permanent damage can be done on all parts of the urinary system with long term or high-grade bladder outlet obstruction.

Complications of BOO include:

• Renal failure
• Recurrent urinary tract infection
• Urinary incontinence
• Urinary retention
• Bladder and renal calculi

Calling your health care provider:

If you have symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction, call your provider. Early diagnosis is important and can often lead to a simple and effective cure.

• Review Date: 6/13/2006
• Reviewed By: Neil D. Sherman, MD, Urologist, Essex County, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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