Urinary Retention in a Patient With an Artificial Urinary Sphincter: A Case Report of a Rare Cause of Urinary Retention

Urinary retention is the inability to spontaneously void with lower abdominal or suprapubic pain caused by infection, trauma, obstruction, medications, or neurological etiologies. Acute urinary retention (AUR) is a urological emergency often seen in males presenting to the emergency department (ED). AUR is frequently seen in men over the age of 60 and approximately one-third of men over the age of 80. A 61-year-old Spanish-speaking male, with a history of prostate cancer and prostatectomy with the recent insertion of an artificial urethral sphincter two months prior, presented to the ED with urinary retention, complaining of malfunction in his artificial sphincter with worsening abdominal pain, distention, urinary urgency, and nausea. A bladder scan demonstrated 450 ml of urine. Bedside ultrasound (US) showed moderate bilateral hydronephrosis and hydroureter. After consultation with urology, they revealed that the patient did not understand how to properly use his implanted device. Urology experts have recommended minimal urethral instrumentation in patients with artificial urinary sphincters due to the risk of complications. Although we present a rare cause of urinary retention, emergency physicians should avoid catheterization in these patients. Bedside renal ultrasound is useful for the diagnosis of hydronephrosis and hydroureter and confirmation of pump and balloon placement. We recommend a prompt urology consultation. This case is an important example of appropriate postoperative education and close-ended communication. Certified interpreters should be used to avoid communication barriers and complications.