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Bladder outlet obstruction

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Kidney anatomy
Kidney anatomy
Female urinary tract
Female urinary tract
Male urinary tract
Male urinary tract
Kidney - blood and urine flow
Kidney - blood and urine flow

Alternative Names    Return to top

BOO; Lower urinary tract obstruction; Prostatism

Definition    Return to top

Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) is a blockageĀ at the base of the bladder that reduces or prevents the flow of urine into the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.

Causes    Return to top

Bladder outlet obstruction can have many different causes, including:

Less common causes of bladder outlet obstruction include:

Bladder outlet obstruction is most common in aging men. It is often caused by BPH. Bladder stones and bladder cancer are also more commonly seen in men than women. As a man ages, the chance of developing these diseases increases dramatically.

See also:

Symptoms    Return to top

The symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction may vary, but can include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

If bladder outlet obstruction is suspected, your health care provider will take a thorough history of your problems. During a physical exam, your provider may find one or more of the following possible causes:

Tests may include:

Treatment    Return to top

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.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

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

Possible Complications    Return to top

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:

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

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.

Prevention    Return to top

The condition may be prevented by identifying and treating the cause of the blockage.

Update Date: 5/22/2008

Updated by: 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.

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