Differential Diagnosis for Urinary Retention after Lithotripsy
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ureteral obstruction due to stone fragments: This is the most likely cause of urinary retention after lithotripsy, as the procedure can sometimes cause stone fragments to obstruct the ureter, leading to urinary retention.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Hemorrhage or clot retention: Bleeding after lithotripsy can lead to clot formation, which may cause urinary retention.
- Urethral stricture or trauma: The lithotripsy procedure itself or the insertion of instruments during the procedure can cause urethral trauma or stricture, leading to urinary retention.
- Infection or sepsis: Infection after lithotripsy can cause inflammation and swelling, leading to urinary retention.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Sepsis due to obstructing stone: An obstructing stone can lead to infection and sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition if not promptly treated.
- Retroperitoneal hemorrhage: Although rare, a retroperitoneal hemorrhage can occur after lithotripsy and is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Foley catheter malfunction: Although rare, a malfunctioning Foley catheter can cause urinary retention.
- Spinal cord injury: In rare cases, lithotripsy can cause spinal cord injury, leading to neurogenic bladder and urinary retention.
- Ureteral avulsion: This is a rare but serious complication of lithotripsy, where the ureter is torn, leading to urinary retention and other complications.