Injection of small doses of botulinum toxin (Botox) into different points of the urinary bladder. The muscle-paralyzing effect of Botox is very useful in some cases of urinary incontinence or neurogenic bladder.
In cases of urge urinary incontinence or overactive bladder that do not respond to medication, an intravesical injection of botulinum toxin (Botox®) can be administered. This treatment is also used in cases of urinary incontinence secondary to neurogenic bladder due to neurological disorders (multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, etc.).
Botulinum toxin inhibits involuntary muscle contractions of the bladder (detrusor) and thus achieves its effect of preventing inadvertent urine leakage.
It is a quick and simple procedure that can be performed under brief anesthesia or even on an outpatient basis in a doctor's office. Patients do not require hospitalization, and a urinary catheter is not necessary after the procedure.
Using a flexible cystoscope inserted through the urethra, the doctor accesses the inside of the bladder and, with a very fine needle, injects small doses at different points. The dose and number of injections will depend on the patient's underlying condition.
The effect of botulinum toxin lasts between six and nine months after its administration.
