Bladder Injection with Botulinum Toxin
Botulinum toxin injection into the bladder is a treatment for overactive bladder and neurogenic voiding dysfunction, used when pharmacological treatment does not bring the expected improvement. The toxin is administered directly into the bladder wall during cystoscopy, reducing excessive contractions of the detrusor muscle. The decision on eligibility is made by the urologist after clinical assessment and a discussion of the risks with the patient.
Reception: Mon–Fri 9:00–20:00. Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15. Price: see the urology price list →
| Indications | overactive bladder, neurogenic voiding dysfunction |
| Method | toxin injections into the bladder wall via cystoscope |
| Procedure time | several to a dozen minutes, outpatient |
| First effects | usually within a few days of the procedure |
| Duration of action | usually 6–12 months |
| Doctors | 4 urologists |
| Price | urology price list |
Kłącz · Gondek · Krukowski · Abazzov
no hospitalisation, home the same day
consultation assessing indications, risks and contraindications before the procedure
private urology clinic
Who is bladder botulinum toxin injection for?
The procedure is considered for patients with an overactive bladder — presenting as sudden urges that are difficult to postpone, urinary frequency or episodes of urge incontinence — when pharmacological treatment has proved insufficient or poorly tolerated. The second group of indications is neurogenic bladder dysfunction — voiding disorders resulting from neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury. In both cases qualification is carried out by the urologist based on medical history, examination and diagnostic results.
What does the procedure involve?
Botulinum toxin is administered directly into the bladder wall during cystoscopy — an endoscopic examination of the inside of the bladder. The procedure is outpatient and usually takes from several to a dozen minutes. The toxin blocks neuromuscular transmission in the detrusor muscle of the bladder, reducing its excessive contractility. The first effects are usually noticeable after a few days, and the action lasts on average from 6 to 12 months. If symptoms return, the procedure can be repeated.
Treatment outcomes
After the procedure, patients usually observe fewer urgent urges and reduced urinary frequency, fewer episodes of urge incontinence, and improved everyday comfort. The extent of improvement is individual and depends on the cause and duration of the symptoms. The urologist discusses realistic expectations during the qualifying consultation.
Contraindications and qualification
The procedure is not indicated in cases including an active urinary tract infection, hypersensitivity to botulinum toxin or its excipients, and in patients who cannot or do not wish to perform self-catheterisation — due to the risk of temporary urinary retention after the procedure (see the section below). The full list of contraindications is assessed individually by the urologist.
What to know before the procedure — risks and limitations
Bladder botulinum toxin injection is a procedure with documented efficacy, but it carries significant risks that the urologist discusses in detail before qualification.
In some patients, temporary urinary retention requiring self-catheterisation may occur after the procedure. Before the procedure, the urologist assesses whether the patient is able to perform catheterisation safely — this is a condition of qualification.
The procedure is performed endoscopically (via cystoscope), which carries a risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). Active infections are ruled out beforehand and the doctor applies the recommended prophylaxis.
The action of botulinum toxin wears off after several months to about a year. Most patients need repeat procedures to maintain the treatment effect. The urologist plans the treatment schedule individually.
Because of the risk of temporary urinary retention after the procedure, the urologist may require the patient's readiness to perform self-catheterisation (clean intermittent catheterisation, CIC) as a condition of qualification. This is an important part of the risk discussion before deciding on the procedure.
Urologists — Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, Gdańsk
Availability for all doctors is shown in the clinic calendar on ZnanyLekarz.
Urologist experienced in urological diagnostics and treatment, including bladder conditions and voiding dysfunction.
Urologist providing diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract conditions, including overactive bladder and voiding disorders.
Urologist with practice in treating bladder dysfunction, including endoscopic procedures and botulinum toxin injections.
Urologist and andrologist on the clinic team. Conducts urological consultations, diagnosis of urinary tract conditions and patient qualification for procedures.
Overactive bladder — book a urological consultation in Gdańsk
Jakub Kłącz, MD · Jakub Gondek, MD · Jakub Krukowski, MD · Artur Abazzov, MD
Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15 · Mon–Fri 9:00–20:00
Frequently asked questions — bladder botulinum toxin injection
How is the procedure performed and does it involve discomfort?
The procedure is performed through a cystoscope under local anaesthesia. The urologist administers botulinum toxin at several to a dozen sites on the bladder wall. The procedure usually takes from several to a dozen minutes. The patient may feel discomfort related to the insertion of the cystoscope — the urologist discusses this beforehand.
What are the risks of bladder injection?
The most significant risk is temporary urinary retention — in some patients the bladder muscle may be relaxed to the point where passing urine independently becomes difficult or impossible. In that case, self-catheterisation is necessary until the toxin's effect wears off. There is also a risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). The urologist discusses the full range of risks individually before qualification.
Which urologist performs this procedure?
Four urologists practise at the clinic: Jakub Kłącz, MD, Jakub Gondek, MD, Jakub Krukowski, MD and Artur Abazzov, MD. Availability is shown in the clinic calendar → If you have no preference, our reception will help you choose a doctor and an appointment time.
How long do the effects of the procedure last?
The action of botulinum toxin usually lasts from 6 to 12 months. The first effects — reduced urgency and frequency — usually appear after a few days. When symptoms return, the procedure can be repeated after consulting the urologist.
Does botulinum toxin treatment replace medication?
Bladder injection is used when pharmacological treatment of overactivity has not brought improvement or is poorly tolerated. It is not a first-line method — the urologist will explain at which stage of treatment the toxin is indicated and will set an individual treatment plan.
Who qualifies the patient and what does the preceding visit involve?
Qualification is carried out by the urologist during consultation. It includes medical history, examination, assessment of urine test and uroflowmetry results, and a discussion of indications, contraindications and risks — including the question of self-catheterisation. The procedure is preceded by ruling out an active urinary tract infection.
Urology — related services
Qualification for the procedure, assessment of indications, diagnosis of bladder and urinary tract conditions.
Details →Endoscopic examination of the bladder — diagnostics and procedural interventions.
Details →Ultrasound of the kidneys, bladder and prostate — basic urological diagnostics.
Details →Current prices for urological consultations and procedures.
Price list →Bladder botulinum toxin injection — Gdańsk, Poland
Jakub Kłącz, MD · Jakub Gondek, MD · Jakub Krukowski, MD · Artur Abazzov, MD
Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15 · Mon–Fri 9:00–20:00 · tel. +48 600 006 913
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not replace a medical consultation. Qualification for bladder botulinum toxin injection — including assessment of indications, contraindications and risks (in particular temporary urinary retention and the need for self-catheterisation) — is carried out individually by the urologist. Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, ul. Toruńska 15 lok. AU1, Gdańsk, Poland. Tel.: +48 600 006 913.
How to Prepare for Bladder Injection with Botulinum Toxin?
How to Prepare for the Procedure?
Before undergoing the procedure, the patient should have a comprehensive urological examination and urological consultation with a specialist. The consultation allows discussing the procedure details, potential risks, and confirming the patient’s eligibility for the procedure.
Information for the Doctor
During the consultation, the patient should inform the doctor about:
- All medications being taken, especially those affecting blood clotting,
- Possible allergies, including those to anesthetics,
- Other medical conditions that may impact the procedure.
Proper preparation and adherence to the doctor’s recommendations ensure a safer and more effective procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bladder Injection with Botulinum Toxin (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions About Bladder Injection with Botulinum Toxin
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience only minimal discomfort during the injections. If necessary, local anesthesia can be used to minimize pain and improve patient comfort.
How quickly can the effects be noticed?
The effects of the procedure typically become noticeable within a few days. Depending on the individual response, the improvements may develop gradually.
How long do the effects of the procedure last?
The results of bladder injection with botulinum toxin can last from several months to a year. The duration of the effects depends on the patient’s individual response. The procedure can be repeated if necessary after consulting with a doctor.
Are there any side effects?
The procedure is generally well-tolerated, but side effects may include:
- Temporary difficulties in urination,
- The need for catheterization,
- Less commonly, urinary tract infections.
If any symptoms occur, it is advisable to contact your doctor promptly.
Is the procedure safe for all patients?
The procedure is considered safe for most patients. However, like any medical intervention, it may not be suitable for everyone. A detailed medical assessment and consultation with a doctor before the procedure are essential.