Injections for an overactive bladder
Minimally invasive treatment for urgency and incontinence
Injections of muscle relaxant into the bladder can help to alleviate the symptoms of overactive bladder syndrome
About managing an overactive bladder
This urgency is caused by the muscles of your bladder wall suddenly contracting. Injections of muscle relaxant work by relaxing these muscles to relieve the symptoms of OAB.
Need to know
-
What happens during the injection procedure? icon plus
Injections for OAB can be done using anaesthetic gel (to block pain in the area) or under general anaesthetic. Your consultant will recommend the best option for you.
A thin flexible telescope (cystoscope) will gently be inserted through your urethra and into your bladder. Your consultant will pump water through the cystoscope to expand your bladder before using a small needle to deliver up to 20 injections in your bladder wall.
Once the cystoscope is removed, you'll be able to empty your bladder. The entire procedure only takes around 10 minutes. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. They'll let you know if there is anything specific you'll need to do to prepare, including avoiding certain medications.
If you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll also let you know long to avoid eating and drinking beforehand. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
After your injections icon plus
You should be able to go home shortly after your appointment, once you've emptied your bladder. Some people have difficulty fully emptying their bladder after having these injections, but this is usually a temporary problem.
Your consultant will let you know what to expect and when you can get back to your normal routine, including work.
The effects of these injections usually last between nine to 12 months. Your consultant will let you know when you should return for a follow-up appointment to have the procedure repeated.
Our urology consultants
Paying for medical treatment
Our locations
From complex urological surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional urological care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
-
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
-
The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
-
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
-
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
-
The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
-
The Prostate Centre
18 Devonshire Street
London W1G 7AQ
-
HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344