Intravesical injection of botulinum toxin A for treatment of overactive bladder in anticoagulated patients: Is it safe?

Objective: This study aimed to identify the complication rate, specifically bleeding, in patients who received anticoagulation undergoing intravesical botulinum toxin A injections.

Material and methods: This study included all patients (n=430) undergoing intravesical injection of botulinum toxin A in a single secondary care center between January 2013 and December 2018. We recorded the use of anticoagulants/antiplatelets and complications. Logistic regression was used to investigate the association between anticoagulant/antiplatelet use and the complications arising, while controlling for age and sex.

Results: We identified 430 procedures in 94 men and 336 women (mean age, 60 years). A total of 79 patients received anticoagulants (18%). Aspirin was the most common anticoagulant (52%). Complication rate in anticoagulated patients was 6% (n=5), and it was 2% in those not on anticoagulants/antiplatelets (n=7). Complications were over 3 times more likely in patients who received anticoagulants/antiplatelets (odds ratio=3.233; 95% confidence interval=0.873, 11.38; p=0.067). There was no difference in the complications between patients with idiopathic symptoms and those with neuropathic overactive bladder. No patients required further surgical intervention, and all except 1 were Clavien–Dindo grade I–II with no mortalities.

Conclusion: Anticoagulated patients undergoing intravesical injections have higher complication risks; however, the treatment outcome is unaffected with no significant morbidity/mortality. This is the first study to demonstrate safe outcomes for this subgroup and can assist in decision making and consenting.

Cite this article as: Wells H, Luton O, Simpkin A, Bullock N, KandaSwamy G, Younis A. Intravesical injection of botulinum toxin A for treatment of overactive bladder in anticoagulated patients: Is it safe? Turk J Urol 2020; 46(6): 481-7.