What Is Urethral Diverticulum?

A urethral diverticulum is a pocket or outpouching that forms along the urethra. Because it connects to the urethra, this pocket continuously fills with urine when a person urinates, leading to various symptoms, such as a painful urination, episodes of incontinence, vaginal mass, ongoing pelvic pain and urinary tract infections (UTI).

Although not common the urethral diverticulum more commonly affects women between age 40 and 70. Children and men with prior urethral surgery are also more prone to this condition. Because it is not common, many cases are missed or misdiagnosed.

What Causes a Urethral Diverticulum?

Urethral diverticulum can be congenital or acquired later in life. The causes of a urethral diverticulum are unclear. A blockage in the glands in the urethra, congenital anomly or prior urethral surgery have been known to cause a urethral diverticulum.

Not all patients have symptoms but if present the most common urethral diverticulum symptoms are:

  • Bladder infections/ urinary tract infections
  • Pelvic pain
  • Pain with sex
  • Dribbling of urine or episodes of leakage
  • Blood in the urine
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Urinary blockage
  • Trouble emptying the bladder
  • A tender area or mass around the urethra.

A urethral diverticulum is commonly diagnosed by a detailed history, physical examination, MRI or under direct vision with a cystoscopy. A cystoscopy is a small camera that is inserted into the urethra to evaluate it and look for an opening or other structural problem.

Is Urethral Diverticulum Serious?

You may have continued bothersome symptoms related to a diverticulum, recurrent infections or in rare reported cases, development of a cancer.

Treatment

Surgery is the primary treatment for a urethral diverticulum. An experienced urologist can perform a urethral diverticulectomy to remove the diverticulum and allow the urethra to heal. This will typically involve a stay in the hospital overnight and a catheter to drain the bladder through the urethra for three to four weeks. This allows the urethra to heal and help prevent complications. The recovery time is roughly four to six weeks.

Insurances Accepted

We accept various medical insurance plans so you can get the care you need for your condition. For questions about your coverage, please contact your insurance provider directly or visit our patient resources page for your billing and insurance questions. If you have specific questions regarding insurance coverage at any Baptist Medical Network location, call us at 210-606-9071.

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