Definition

Injury after accidents, falls, blows or penetrating wounds to the pelvis and urinary tract.

Symptoms

Flank or pelvic pain, urine or urethral bleeding, or inability to urinate; absent bleeding does not exclude injury.

How it may be discovered

Road accidents, sport, falls or penetrating injury.

When to seek care

These signs after significant trauma require emergency care. Do not attempt catheter insertion yourself.

Investigations and tests

General trauma assessment and targeted imaging based on stability and suspected organs.

Reaching a diagnosis

CT, cystography or urethral imaging is selected for the suspected injury.

Treatment options

Observation for selected stable injuries, drainage, embolisation or surgery according to damage and bleeding.

Explore this topic further

Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.