What is a Urethral Diverticulum (UD)?

The urethra is a tube that carries urine out of the bladder and out of the body when urinating. In females, this tube is only 4 cm long. A urethral diverticulum (UD) is an abnormal pocket or pouch that forms along the urethra. Because of the positioning of the sac, it may become obstructed with urine or even pus, which can lead to infection and other problems.

Is a Urethral Diverticulum a Common Disorder?

No, it is relatively rare, although physicians diagnose it more often in modern times. With improved imaging techniques, physicians can now explore this problem when patients indicate some degree of pain in this body area.

However, it is believed that many cases remain undiagnosed because the disease is sporadic, and the physician does not always suspect it. UDs occur most often in women between the ages of 30 and 60.

What are the Symptoms of Urethral Diverticulum?

Most women with a UD report they can feel a mass in their pelvic region. In addition, they may suffer from:

Recurring urinary tract infections
Leakage of urine after they have passed urine
Pain when passing urine
Frequent and urgent urination
Blood in the urine
Pain during sexual intercourse

Importantly, symptoms can come and go. About 20% of patients with a UD do not report any symptoms at all.

What Causes a Urethral Diverticulum?

The cause is sometimes specific. There seems to be a link between UDs and recurrent bladder infections, which may make the urethra wall thinner. A block in the glands near the urethra may also be responsible.

How is a Urethral Diverticulum Diagnosed?

A urethral diverticulum is often discovered accidentally during a routine pelvic examination or because of symptoms the woman is experiencing. At that time, her doctor may perform a physical exam or order further tests to find the cause.

During a physical examination, a healthcare provider will palpate the vaginal wall to determine if any mass or sore areas are present. If a sac is felt, a gentle squeeze may reveal urine or pus. A urinalysis is usually one of the first tests ordered.

If the doctor suspects a problem, they may order imaging tests, such as:

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Produces clear images of the pelvis, especially around the vagina, to detect any masses.
Ultrasound: Uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal body structures and detect swelling or accumulated urine.
Cystoscopy: An examination of the urethra and bladder to locate the diverticulum and visualize its opening.

How is a Urethral Diverticulum Treated?

The best treatment for a UD is usually surgery, though it may not be appropriate for everyone. Some women prefer to monitor their UD and only undergo surgery if symptoms worsen, making regular follow-up visits essential.

The surgery is performed by a specialized urologist to avoid injury to the urethra. The surgeon may:

Remove the sac entirely, depending on its size and location
Incise the neck of the sac for drainage
Create an opening from the sac to the vagina for drainage

In some cases, surgery can also correct urinary incontinence at the same time. Most patients will need antibiotics for at least 24 hours after surgery and may have a catheter placed for two to three weeks. A follow-up test is usually done before catheter removal to ensure proper healing.

What is the Prognosis for a Patient Diagnosed with Urethral Diverticulum?

Although rare, some individuals may continue to experience complications due to incomplete removal or sealing of the sac. In such cases, a second surgical procedure may be necessary.

Why Choose Tender Palm Super Speciality Hospital for Urethral Diverticulum treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Hospital has the most experienced team of Urologists and diagnostics with the latest and International standard infection control measures in Lucknow, India. The Urology team has decades of experience in successfully treating Urethral Diverticulum in Lucknow, India.