Botulinum injections for bladder overactivity and incontinence
Definition
The injection of botulinum toxin A, or botulinum A, into the bladder for treatment of urological disorders including overactive bladder and urinary incontinence.
Alternative names
Botulinum toxin injection 鈥� bladder, Botulinum toxin A, Onabotulinum toxin Type A, Intradetrusor Injection, Bladder Botox庐, Name Brand - Botox庐
How are botulinum bladder injections done?
Botulinum A injections are done in office using a cystoscope and local anesthetic to treat any discomfort during treatment. If a patient prefers, injections can also be performed in an OR setting with deep sedation. The patient is typically able to return to their regular activities following treatment.
What do botulinum injections treat?
Botulinum injections are used to treat overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, which typically occur in congruence with one another.
Overactive bladder, or OAB, is a common ailment that affects as many as 30% of men and 40% of women in the United States.
Overactive bladder alternative names
Urge incontinence, frequent or urgent urination, urinary incontinence
What are symptoms of overactive bladder?
Common symptoms include:
- Not being able to control when you pass urine.
- Having to urinate often during the day and night.
- Needing to urinate suddenly and urgently.
If experiencing these symptoms, a urologist can help diagnose and treat the issue.
How do botulinum a bladder injections work?
Once injected into bladder muscles, Botulinum A works by relaxing the muscles to stop contractions. By stopping bladder muscle contractions, there is a marked reduction in urinary urgency, frequency and incontinence as a result.
After treatment
Following treatment, symptom relief is generally experienced within 2 to 3 weeks, with mild improvements possible within 48 hours of treatment. A majority of patients will be able to return to daily activities, though some discomfort and cramping may be felt.
Is botulinum bladder injection treatment permanent?
No, overtime the effectiveness of injections will wear off, but maintenance treatments can help maintain effective treatment. Maintenance can be done every six months or longer depending on each individual patient and severity of condition.
Side effects
Though low, the most common side effects include temporary cramping, urinary tract infection, urinary retention, muscle weakness and blood in urine.
References
Overactive bladder (OAB). Overactive Bladder (OAB): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Urology Care Foundation. (n.d.).