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Bladder outlet obstruction

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. Text Continues Below 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.

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