The urogenital tract is composed of the kidney, the ureter, the bladder and the urethra. The kidneys sit in the back of the abdomen, just below the ribs. The ureters a narrow tubes that connect the kidney to the bladder and transport urine. The bladder is a muscular walled structure that stores urine and intermittently contracts to expel it through the urethra. The urethra empties through the penis or vagina. All of these structures can be injured by blunt trauma, penetrating trauma or procedures in which tubes or instruments are placed into these structures. Bleeding or blood clots can form in the urinary tract. Disruption of any of these structures can lead to extravasations of urine into various body cavities. Damage can also lead to obstruction. Continued production of urine can increase pressures and damage the structures above the obstruction.
Causes of Trauma To Urogenital Tract
Blunt trauma to the abdomen can damage any of the structures of the urogenital tract. Similarly, penetrating trauma can also damage any of these structures. Pelvic fractures can injure the ureters, the bladder or the urethra. The bladder may be disrupted with urine leaking into the pelvis.
Signs and Symptoms of Trauma To Urogenital Tract
Blunt trauma to the kidney can lead to upper abdominal pain and back pain. The pain may radiate into the groin or genitals. Blood may develop in the urine, or there may be difficulty of inability to urinate. Injuries to other abdominal structures are common. Damage to the bladder, ureter or urethra can occur from blunt trauma. It may be associated with pelvic fractures. It may not be possible to urinate. Blood or blood clots may form within the urine. Painful urination may occur. Localized swelling and bruising of the abdomen, groin or low back may develop. Injuries to the urethra may produce localized swelling and pain in the vagina. In men, deformity of the penis may occur. There is often swelling and bruising. Difficulty or inability to urinate is common. Blood in the urine is common.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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