acute urine retention

Been on foley catheter for approx. 6 weeks due to hospital stay for angioplasty, and then a continuation due to a visual laser ablation of the prostate. If I started using an intermittant catheter (every 4 hours?) would  the urinary system start working, assuming there are no physical obstructions?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

What you are describing is a neurogenic bladder - which can certainly manifest due to prostate procedures or chronic foley use.  

It is possible that intermittent catheter use can help, but other causes of the neurogenic bladder should be discounted first.  Tests may include the following:

- x-rays of the skull and spine
- electroencephalogram (EEG) - a procedure that records the brain's continuous, electrical activity by means of electrodes attached to the scalp
- imaging tests of the bladder and ureters
- tests that involve filling the bladder (to see how much it can hold and checking to see if the bladder empties completely)

These tests could be discussed with your urologist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[golfinman]

A related discussion, turp was started.