Hydrodistension is a medical procedure most commonly used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bladder, particularly interstitial cystitis (IC) or bladder pain syndrome (BPS). Here’s an overview of the procedure:
Hydrodistension involves filling the bladder with fluid (usually sterile water or saline) to stretch it and assess its capacity and condition. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, as it can be uncomfortable or painful for patients with bladder conditions.
Anesthesia: The patient is given general or spinal anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Cystoscopy: A cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to visualize the bladder lining.
Filling the Bladder: The bladder is slowly filled with fluid to stretch it. This helps the doctor evaluate the bladder’s capacity and identify any abnormalities, such as inflammation, ulcers, or reduced elasticity.
Draining the Bladder: After the bladder is stretched, the fluid is drained, and the bladder is examined again for any signs of damage or bleeding.
Diagnostic: Hydrodistension helps diagnose interstitial cystitis or other bladder conditions by revealing abnormalities in the bladder wall, such as glomerulations (tiny bleeding points) or Hunner’s ulcers (patches of inflamed tissue).
Therapeutic: For some patients, hydrodistension can provide temporary relief from symptoms like bladder pain, urgency, and frequency by stretching the bladder and improving its capacity.
While hydrodistension is generally safe, it carries some risks, including:
Temporary worsening of symptoms (e.g., pain, urgency, or frequency).
Urinary tract infection (UTI).
Bladder injury or rupture (rare).
Blood in the urine (hematuria) after the procedure.
Patients may experience discomfort, burning, or blood in the urine for a few days after the procedure.
Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush the bladder and reduce the risk of infection.
Symptoms of interstitial cystitis may temporarily improve or worsen after the procedure.
Hydrodistension is typically recommended when other diagnostic methods (e.g., urine tests, cystoscopy without distension) are inconclusive, or when a patient with interstitial cystitis does not respond to conservative treatments like medications or lifestyle changes.
If you or someone you know is considering hydrodistension, it’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a urologist or healthcare provider.
