Bladder Diverticulum
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for bladder diverticula. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need bladder diverticula care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.
What Are Bladder Diverticula?
Bladder diverticulum is the formation of a pouch that protrudes from the bladder wall. There are two types of bladder diverticulum: congenital (present at birth) and acquired, meaning that the pouch formed due to a condition affecting the bladder.
Causes of Bladder Diverticula
Bladder diverticula are caused by congenital or acquired defects in the bladder wall.
Congenital bladder diverticulum: typically diagnosed in childhood and often does not require treatment
Acquired bladder diverticulum: most often caused by an obstruction in the bladder outlet, resulting from an enlarged prostate, scars in the urethra, nerve injury or a neurologic condition. In acquired diverticulum, many pouches may form, whereas congenital bladder diverticulum forms a single pouch.
Signs & Symptoms of Bladder Diverticula
Often, bladder diverticula may not have any symptoms at all. When symptoms are present, they can include:
- Frequent urination
- Pain or discomfort in the lower part of your belly or bladder area, especially when you try to pass urine.
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Urinary tract infection
- Blood in the urine
- Bladder stones
Diagnosing Bladder Diverticula
Congenital and acquired bladder diverticulum are usually diagnosed with imaging tests, including a computed tomography (CT) scan or ultrasound. If bladder diverticulum is suspected, further diagnostic tests include:
- Cystogram: an X-ray test of the bladder using contrast dye
- Cystoscopy: a more detailed and thorough picture of the bladder wall obtained by placing a scope inside the bladder via the urethra
Treating Bladder Diverticula
Congenital and acquired bladder diverticulum do not always require treatment, particularly if they do not cause urinary tract infections, bladder stones or urinary reflux. Bladder diverticulum associated with bladder tumors, recurrent infection or urinary retention requires treatment with medication or surgery. In patients with bladder diverticulum and urinary obstruction, treatment includes relief of the obstruction and potential removal of the diverticulum using open or laparoscopic surgery.