Because it is in a well-protected location, bladder injury is rare. When damage occurs it is to the urinary bladder or the urethra which is the tube through which urine travels from the bladder to the outside.
Causes of Bladder Or Urethra Injury
Pelvic-bone fractures that puncture the bladder or urethra is the usual cause of this type of injury. Penetrating trauma may also lead to injuries of these structures. Manipulation of the urethra or bladder by surgical means can lead to similar, although usually not as severe of, injuries.
Signs and Symptoms of Bladder Or Urethra Injury
The symptoms of bladder or urethral injury depend, in part, on the mechanism of injury. In blunt or penetrating trauma to the lower abdomen and pelvis, symptoms may include severe abdominal pain and shock (sweating, faintness, nausea, panting, rapid pulse, pale, cold, moist skin). Less severe injuries, or injuries caused by manipulation through the urethra and bladder may produce painful urination or inability to urinate. In either type of injury there may be a bloody discharge or gross blood from the urethra.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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