We here at Z Urology are here to diagnose, discuss, and then aid in curing or helping (through treatment and/or surgery) in any urological problems that may enter your life. One such problem that we see often is the bladder fistula. And while this is not a life-threatening issue, it can be very annoying and discomforting.
A bladder fistula is an abnormal connection between the bladder and another organ or skin. The most common forms of bladder fistulas involve either the bowel (enterovesical fistula) or the vagina (vesiovaginal fistula). The good news for you, is that Z Urology can take care of this through urinary reconstruction.
Although relatively rare, fistulization to the skin can result from an injury or previous surgery in the face of bladder outlet obstruction. The biggest problem with fistulas is that they are usually created by infection, and they carry this infection to any organ they connect to.
Who is at Risk for Developing a Bladder Fistula?
- The most common reason for a bladder fistula is an inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s Disease or diverticulitis. Around 25% of people with Crohn’s Disease will develop a fistula.
- Approximately 20% of bowel fistulas are caused by bowel cancer.
- Fistulas may also develop as a result of previous radiation therapy.
Causes of a Bladder Fistula
INFLAMMATION
- Inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract causes the intestines to form scar tissue and become abnormally thick.
- This thickening can lead to the formation of ulcers on the inside lining of the intestines.
- When the ulcers grow deeper, they can begin to burrow through the wall of the intestine, forming a tunnel that leads to whatever tissue is next to the sore.
ABSCESSES
- Anal abscesses are often linked with fistulas and result from an infection of the small glands inside the anus. Crohn’s disease increases the risk of infection of these glands.
Symptoms of a Bladder Fistula
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Passage of gas from the urethra during urination
- Urinary leakage
Diagnosis
A doctor may administer the following tests to diagnose a bladder fistula:
- Excretory urogram - an x-ray examination of the bladder in which contrast dye is injected into the patient’s system and its progress through the urinary tract is recorded to study the anatomy and function of the bladder and urinary tract.
- CT Scan
- Cystogram (bladder x-ray)
If you feel you are in need of help with a bladder fistula, then contact Z Urology for a group that is dedicated to delivering world-class expertise in urology, along with an unwavering commitment to their patients. The three locations to choose from are located in Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs, and Pompano Beach.
You can go to the website directly and set up an appointment or you can call 954-714-8200. Either way, you contact, you will be setting up to see the leading urologist office in all of South Florida. With an extremely talented and professional staff of doctors and more, you are in truly good hands with the doctors and nurses at Z Urology. Z Urology is your leader in urological care. Go ahead and call now!
