Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin; Botox is used to relax muscular tissue and is commonly used for wrinkles on the face. In the bladder, it can relax the bladder muscle. This results in a reduction to void urine as frequently as one did before.
Men or women who have to pass urine too frequently or rush to the toilet to pass urine, especially during the day and night may be suitable for Botox.
Typically, people with an overactive bladder from a neurological problem such as multiple sclerosis or a stroke are suitable also.
The procedure is a day case procedure (home the day of surgery).
Botox can be given either under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic. The procedure initially involves a telescope examination of the bladder (cystoscopy). The telescope is passed through natural passageway (urethra) into the bladder, so there are no incisions. The bladder is examined carefully. Botox is injected into the bladder wall through a special needle passed through the telescope. Patient can then go home if well and passing urine satisfactorily.
