Suburethral abscess: a complication of periurethral collagen injection therapy.

Abstract

Urinary tract infection after collagen injection is well documented. Other adverse reactions are rare. Three women experienced suburethral abscess after repeat periurethral injections. All patients received local skin preparation and postprocedural antibiotics. Symptoms failed to resolve with antibiotics. The first two patients presented after 5 weeks and 10 days with irritative voiding symptoms and a tender suburethral swelling. The first patient was treated with excision. Spontaneous rupture into the urethra occurred with the second. The third woman presented with acute urinary retention at 102 days. A large suburethral mass was drained successfully in the office. Suburethral abscess may be a delayed complication of periurethral collagen injections, not preventable by postprocedural antibiotics. Drainage is required.