What causes urinary retention after prostate biopsy?
Jul 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Mingchuan
Introduction
Urinary retention generally refers to the inability to urinate. Prostate biopsy is a common method for diagnosing and treating prostate-related conditions. In most cases, urinary retention following a prostate biopsy may be related to prostate swelling, urethral injury, or prolonged urine holding. Additionally, it could result from other causes such as weak bladder contraction, infection, or improper postoperative care.
Urinary retention generally refers to the inability to urinate. Prostate biopsy is a common method used to diagnose and treat prostate-related conditions. In most cases, urinary retention following a prostate biopsy may be related to prostate swelling, urethral injury, prolonged urine retention, or other factors. Specific causes are as follows:
1. Prostate swelling: A prostate biopsy may cause swelling of the prostate tissue. This swelling can compress the urethra, preventing urine from passing through smoothly.
2. Urethral injury: During the prostate biopsy procedure, the urethra may sustain damage or trauma—for example, if the biopsy needle injures urethral tissue. Such injury may lead to urethral stricture or obstruction, resulting in urinary retention.
3. Prolonged urine retention: Before undergoing a prostate biopsy, patients are often required to hold their urine. Extended urine retention may cause bladder dilation and reduced muscular function, impairing normal urine expulsion and leading to urinary retention.
In addition, other factors such as weak bladder contraction, infection, or inadequate postoperative care may also contribute. Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention, communicate with their doctor, and receive a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment recommendations based on their specific condition.
