Print this page
 Email this page

 Connect with UMMC on:
 Twitter
 Facebook
 YouTube
iPhone

 Share this page:

Bookmark and Share

Home > Medical Reference > Encyclopedia (English)

Toggle: English / Spanish

 

Video details

[ Flash player icon ] Please install flash player to see this video.

Hospital Virtual Tour

Click to take a virtual tour

Related Content


 

Bladder outlet obstruction - Treatment

Alternative Names

BOO; Lower urinary tract obstruction; Prostatism

Treatment:

Treatment of bladder outlet obstruction depends on the cause of the problem. 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 usually involves surgery. However, medical treatment options are available for many of the diseases that cause BOO. Discuss treatment options with your health care 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. Long-term or high-grade bladder outlet obstruction can permanently damage all parts of the urinary system.

Complications of BOO include:

  • Bladder and kidney stones
  • Kidney failure
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Urinary retention

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.

  • Reviewed last on: 5/22/2008
  • Scott M. Gilbert, MD, Department of Urology, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com