A bladder washout, also known as bladder irrigation, is a medical procedure designed to flush the inside of the bladder. It involves introducing a sterile solution, typically saline, into the bladder through a thin tube called a catheter. This fluid is then drained out, carrying with it any unwanted material. The process is a way to clean the bladder internally without surgery.
Reasons for a Bladder Washout
A primary reason for a bladder washout is to clear blood clots, especially after urinary system surgeries like a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). These clots can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to pain and potential kidney damage if not addressed. The procedure helps maintain the openness of the catheter and prevents blockages.
Another purpose is to remove sediment, mucus, or other debris from the bladder. For instance, individuals who have undergone a bladder augmentation, a surgery that enlarges the bladder, may experience mucus buildup that can block a catheter. A washout can flush this mucus out, ensuring the bladder empties completely and lowering the risk of infection. The procedure can also be used to deliver medication directly to the bladder lining for persistent infections.
The Bladder Washout Procedure
The procedure is performed by a healthcare professional, such as a nurse. It begins with a urinary catheter already in place or the insertion of a new one. The healthcare provider uses a large syringe to draw up a sterile saline solution. The syringe is connected to the catheter’s port, and the saline is gently pushed into the bladder.
Patients may feel coolness, pressure, or fullness in their lower abdomen, but the procedure should not cause sharp pain. After a specified amount of solution is instilled, the fluid is drawn back out, bringing debris with it. This process is repeated until the drained solution appears clear.
In some cases, a “piston technique” might be used, where saline is rapidly pushed in and pulled out to dislodge stubborn debris. For continuous irrigation after surgery, a special three-way catheter is used. This allows for a constant, slow flushing of the bladder over several hours or days.
Aftercare and Potential Complications
Following a bladder washout, it is normal to experience mild, temporary discomfort or a burning sensation during urination. A healthcare provider will monitor urine output to ensure that bleeding has subsided and no new clots are forming. Patients are generally encouraged to drink more fluids for 24 to 48 hours to help flush the urinary system.
While the procedure is generally safe, there are potential complications. The presence of a catheter increases the risk of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Signs of an infection include fever, chills, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and a burning sensation. Bladder spasms, which are sudden, intense pains in the bladder area, can also occur.
It is important to seek medical attention for severe pain, a fever, or an inability to urinate, as this could indicate a blockage or serious infection. In rare instances, improper administration could lead to a bladder injury. Contacting a provider with any of these symptoms ensures complications are managed promptly.