Bladder Diverticula in Children

Overview

Bladder diverticula are pouches or sacs that form on the bladder wall, creating pockets where urine can become trapped. In children, bladder diverticula may be congenital (present at birth) or acquired, often due to conditions that increase pressure within the bladder. Small diverticula are typically harmless, but larger ones can cause problems by interfering with normal bladder emptying or leading to infections. Early diagnosis and monitoring are essential to prevent complications and ensure healthy bladder function.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bladder diverticula in children can vary depending on the size of the diverticulum and whether it affects bladder function. Common signs and symptoms include:

  • Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs): Trapped urine in the diverticulum can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to recurring UTIs.
  • Difficulty urinating: Some children may have trouble emptying their bladder fully or experience a weak urine stream.
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen can occur due to urine retention or infection.
  • Blood in urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, may be present in some cases, especially if the diverticulum is irritated or infected.

Causes

Bladder diverticula can be either congenital or acquired:

  • Congenital bladder diverticula: These occur when there is a defect in the bladder wall during fetal development. The bladder wall may be weaker in certain areas, causing a pouch to form.
  • Acquired bladder diverticula: These usually result from increased pressure in the bladder due to conditions like bladder outlet obstruction or neurogenic bladder (when nerve issues affect bladder control). This increased pressure forces part of the bladder wall to bulge out, creating a diverticulum.

Risk Factors:
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing bladder diverticula, including:

  • Congenital abnormalities: Children with congenital urinary tract abnormalities may have a higher risk of bladder diverticula.
  • Bladder outlet obstruction: Conditions that cause urinary obstruction, such as posterior urethral valves or urethral strictures, increase bladder pressure and the likelihood of diverticulum formation.
  • Neurogenic bladder: Children with neurological conditions affecting bladder function are at higher risk for acquired bladder diverticula.

Diagnosis

Bladder diverticula are typically diagnosed through imaging tests, often prompted by symptoms like recurring UTIs or difficulty urinating. Diagnostic steps include:

  • Ultrasound: A bladder ultrasound can identify pouches on the bladder wall, assess bladder structure, and check for residual urine.
  • Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG): This test uses contrast dye to visualize the bladder during urination, allowing the doctor to observe any diverticula and determine if they retain urine.
  • Cystoscopy: In some cases, a cystoscope (a small camera inserted into the urethra) may be used to view the bladder lining directly and confirm the presence of diverticula.
  • MRI or CT scan: Advanced imaging may be recommended if a detailed view of the urinary tract is needed, particularly in complex cases.

Treatment Options

The treatment for bladder diverticula in children depends on the size of the diverticulum and whether it is causing symptoms. At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we offer a range of treatment options based on the needs of each child:

  • Observation and monitoring:
    Small diverticula that do not cause symptoms may only require regular monitoring with periodic imaging and check-ups to ensure they do not enlarge or cause issues.
  • Antibiotic therapy:
    If a child has frequent UTIs due to urine retention in the diverticulum, a low-dose antibiotic regimen may be prescribed to help prevent infections.
  • Surgical correction:
    In cases where the diverticulum causes significant symptoms, such as obstruction, recurrent infections, or difficulty urinating, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options include:

    • Diverticulectomy: The surgeon removes the diverticulum to restore normal bladder function. This procedure is typically done if the diverticulum is large or symptomatic.
    • Bladder neck repair: In cases where an underlying condition, like bladder outlet obstruction, is causing increased bladder pressure, the surgeon may perform a repair to address this issue and prevent further diverticulum formation.
  • Follow-up care:
    After treatment, regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor for recurrence, assess bladder health, and ensure that the child is voiding normally.

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Bladder Diverticula. Here’s why families trust us:

“Our child was diagnosed with Bladder Diverticula, and we didn't know where to turn. The team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital was amazing - they worked with us to develop a personalized treatment plan that helped our child manage their symptoms and thrive.”

Sarahparent of a child with Bladder Diverticula

Bladder Diverticula in Children

Bladder diverticula can be congenital, due to a defect in the bladder wall, or acquired, often due to conditions that increase bladder pressure, like bladder outlet obstruction.

No, small, asymptomatic diverticula may only require monitoring. Treatment is recommended if they cause symptoms like UTIs or difficulty urinating.

Treatment may include observation, antibiotics for UTIs, or surgical removal if the diverticulum is large or symptomatic.

If untreated and symptomatic, bladder diverticula can lead to recurrent UTIs, bladder dysfunction, or, in rare cases, kidney damage. Early treatment can prevent these complications.

Yes, surgery is safe and effective, particularly when performed by experienced pediatric urologists. It is generally recommended for large or problematic diverticula.

Contact Us

If your child has been diagnosed with bladder diverticula or is experiencing symptoms related to bladder function, Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital is here to provide expert, compassionate care. Our pediatric urology specialists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to ensure your child’s health and well-being.

Contact us today to learn more about our Bladder Diverticula in Children treatment options.

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