Overactive Bladder Treatment with Bladder Botox®

Medical Benefits:

1. Symptom Relief: Botulinum toxin injections significantly reduce urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence by temporarily paralysing parts of the bladder muscle.
2. Improved Bladder Control: Enhanced bladder control reduces accidents and the need to find a bathroom.
3. Long-Lasting Effects: Effects last six to nine months, providing extended relief from OAB symptoms.
4. Alternative to Surgery: Offers an effective alternative to more invasive surgical procedures, especially beneficial for unsuitable surgical candidates.

Quality of Life Benefits:

1. Enhanced Daily Living: Reduced OAB symptoms allow for greater participation in social, professional, and recreational activities without the constant worry of needing a restroom.
2. Better Sleep: Decreased nocturia improves sleep quality.
3. Reduced Medication Side Effects: Provides symptom relief without the systemic side effects associated with oral medications.

Psychological Benefits:

1. Increased Confidence: Better symptom management boosts confidence and reduces anxiety.
2. Mental Health Improvement: Improved bladder control lessens the mental burden of OAB, leading to better mental health outcomes.

Expected Outcomes:

1. Gradual Improvement: Full effects are typically seen within two weeks, with optimal results around 12 weeks.
2. Temporary Side Effects: Minor side effects, such as urinary tract infections, temporary urinary retention, and slight discomfort, are generally mild and transient.
3. Ongoing Management: Repeat treatments every six to nine months to ensure continued symptom relief and quality of life improvements.

While botulinum toxin injections are generally safe, potential risks and side effects include urinary retention, urinary tract infections, and mild discomfort at the injection sites. In rare cases, patients may experience difficulty urinating, which might require temporary catheter use.

At Waterfront Private Hospital, we prioritise patient safety by thoroughly evaluating each patient and employing highly skilled practitioners to perform the procedure, thereby minimising these risks.

1. What is Overactive Bladder (OAB)? Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a condition characterised by a sudden, frequent urge to urinate, often accompanied by urinary incontinence. Symptoms include urgency, frequency (urinating more than eight times in 24 hours), and nocturia (waking up at night to urinate).

2. What is Bladder Botox®? Bladder Botox® involves injecting botulinum toxin into the bladder muscle to reduce its overactivity. This treatment helps to manage the symptoms of OAB by relaxing the bladder muscles and reducing involuntary contractions.

3. How does Bladder Botox® work? Botulinum toxin works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a chemical that signals muscle contractions. When injected into the bladder muscle, it helps to relax the muscle, reducing the urgency and frequency of urination.

4. Who is a good candidate for Bladder Botox®? Candidates for Bladder Botox® are typically those who have not responded well to other treatments such as medications, bladder retraining, or pelvic floor exercises. It is also suitable for patients who cannot tolerate the side effects of oral medications.

5. What should I expect during the procedure? The procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia. A cystoscope is used to guide the injections of botulinum toxin into the bladder wall. The process takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and patients can usually go home the same day.

6. Are there any risks or side effects? Common side effects include urinary tract infections, temporary urinary retention, and mild discomfort at the injection sites. Rarely, some patients may experience difficulty urinating and may need temporary use of a catheter.

7. How soon will I see results? While some patients notice improvements within a few days, the full effects are usually seen within two weeks, with optimal results around 12 weeks.

8. How long do the effects of Bladder Botox® last? The effects typically last for six to nine months. Repeat treatments are necessary to maintain symptom relief.

9. What should I do after the procedure? Post-procedure care includes staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities for a few days, and monitoring for any signs of infection. Patients may need to use Clean Intermittent Self Catheterisation (CISC) if they experience urinary retention.

10. Will I need to stop any medications before the procedure? You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin, seven days before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding. Always consult your doctor for specific instructions based on your medical history.

11. Can pregnant women receive Bladder Botox®? Botox injections are not advised for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Discuss any pregnancy plans with your doctor before proceeding with treatment.

12. How is my progress monitored after the treatment? Follow-up care includes regular check-ins with your healthcare provider, usually through phone calls and appointments, to monitor your progress and address any concerns. Patients should measure and record their residual urine volume if using CISC.

13. What are the alternative treatments for OAB? Alternative treatments for OAB include bladder retraining, pelvic floor exercises, fluid and dietary management, and anticholinergic medications. Neuromodulation therapy and surgical options are considered for more severe cases.

14. Why choose Waterfront Private Hospital for my treatment? Waterfront Private Hospital offers state-of-the-art facilities, experienced specialists, and comprehensive care for OAB. Our team is dedicated to providing personalised treatment plans and exceptional support throughout your recovery journey.