Cystectomy Without Urethrectomy Does Not Improve Pelvic Pain In Patients With Refractory Painful Bladder Syndrome: A Case Series With Review Of The Literature

Interstitial cystitis is characterized by suprapubic pain, urinary urgency and frequency. In cases refractory to medical management, cystectomy has been considered as a form of treatment. However, cystectomy without urethrectomy can result in persistent pelvic pain post operatively. We present two cases where cystectomy was performed without urethrectomy. Both patients complained of persistent pelvic pain despite cystectomy. We suggest that if cystectomy is considered in the treatment of refractory interstitial cystitis that urethrectomy should also be included as part of the procedure.