Urethral Injuries From Pelvic Fracture
Sustaining a pelvic fracture can lead to urethral injuries that require immediate medical attention and treatment.
Recovering from a pelvic fracture is not a pleasant experience on its own. But if you sustained a urethral injury at the same time, you could be in for additional discomfort until your damaged urethra is repaired.Urethral Injuries Caused by Pelvic Fracture
Pelvic fractures can lead to posterior urethral stenosis, which is also called a urethral stricture. The impact can tear the urethra and lead to the telltale internal scarring that blocks the flow of urine. Due to the nature of the trauma caused by pelvic fracture, this type of urethral stricture can be more severe than those brought on by the use of surgical tools during a medical procedure or a lesser injury.Symptoms of Urethral Injuries From Pelvic Fracture
Posterior urethral stenosis creates difficulty during urination due to the blockage it creates in the urethra. You will likely notice that you have to strain in order to empty your bladder properly. Bleeding from your urethra is another sign to look for after sustaining a pelvic fracture.
Other symptoms can include:
- Urinary tract infections
- Bloody or darkened urine
- Painful urination
- Weakened urine flow
- Abdominal pain
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Prostate infections
Diagnosing Urethral Injuries From Pelvic Fracture
A doctor will perform several tests to diagnose posterior urethral stenosis following a pelvic fracture. This round of testing may include:
- A retrograde urethrogram
- A cystogram
- A urethroscopy
- A cystoscopy
- X-rays
- An ultrasound
- A physical examination
- A voiding cystourethrogram
Treating Urethral Injuries From Pelvic Fracture
Urethral injuries like posterior urethral stenosis are treatable and do not always come back later. At Tampa General Hospital, you can benefit from world-class treatment from expert doctors who are skilled and experienced in utilizing the latest robotic technology.
Treatment for these injuries is typically handled in three ways:
- Dilation of the stenosis
- Urethrotomy
- Urethroplasty surgery
Follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are important to ensure that your urethral injury doesn’t recur over time. Should your condition reappear, you may need another procedure.