Bladder Instillation

Bladder instillation is a treatment option using medications inserted into the bladder through the urethra to relieve bladder symptoms commonly associated with the following conditions:

● Interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome

● Recurrent urinary tract infections

● Certain types of bladder cancer

 

Benefits of Bladder Instillation

Bladder instillation uses medications inserted directly into the bladder to reduce inflammation and reduce pain. It can also be used with certain types of bladder cancer. The bladder instillation process helps to reduce some of the following uncomfortable bladder and urinary symptoms:

● Urgency

● Frequency

● Burning

● Pain

 

Bladder Instillation Procedure

During the bladder instillation procedure, the bladder is filled with a solution, which is held there for a certain amount of time, known as the dwell time. The solution is inserted into the bladder through a catheter and must be held there for intervals of 15 to 20 minutes before being voided. Some solutions are intended to coat and protect the bladder, while others are used to suppress inflammation. Depending on the cause of the condition and patient allergies, the solutions used may vary. The solution usually consists of combinations of different chemicals that may include:

● Dimethyl sulfoxide or DMSO

● Heparin

● Kenalog

 

The bladder instillation process is normally repeated for six consecutive weeks and symptoms tend to mitigate as the process continues.

 

Complications of Bladder Instillation

Bladder instillation is a simple procedure and side effects are minimal but often include a metallic or garlic-like taste in the mouth and odor on the skin. Most patients who respond to this type of treatment notice an improvement in their symptoms three to four weeks after their first treatment.