Urethral Diverticulum
What is Urethral Diverticulum?
Urethral diverticulum occurs when a small pouch or sac-like structure forms in the urethra, leading to various symptoms and potential complications.
This is a rare condition that presents in women.
Common Symptoms
- Pain During Urination: Discomfort or pain experienced during the act of urination.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent UTIs due to the pooling of urine in the diverticulum.
- Difficulty Emptying the Bladder: Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
- Sense of a ‘bulge’ in the anterior vaginal wall or discomfort
- Pelvic Pain: Pain or discomfort in the pelvic region, especially during or after urination.
Causes
- Weakness in Urethral Wall: The weakening of the urethral wall, leading to the formation of a pouch.
- Chronic Inflammation: Long-term inflammation of the urethra contributing to diverticulum development.
- Trauma or Injury: Previous trauma or injury to the pelvic region may increase the risk.
Diagnosis
- Medical History and Physical Examination: A detailed discussion about symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination.
- Imaging Studies: Imaging techniques such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize the diverticulum.
- Urethroscopy, Cystoscopy and Examination Under Anaesthesia: Visual examination of the urethra and bladder using a cystoscope and examination under anaesthesia to localise the diverticulum to assist with surgical planning.
Treatment Options
- Surgical Excision: Removal of the diverticulum through surgical intervention.
- Drainage or Marsupialization: Draining the diverticulum or creating a controlled opening to alleviate symptoms.
