Bladder rupture

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Classification

Intraperitoneal bladder rupture

Occurs in approximately 10%–20% of major bladder injuries.

Typically the result of a direct blow to the already distended bladder.

CT cystography demonstrates intraperitoneal contrast material around bowel loops, between mesenteric folds, and in the paracolic gutters

Intraperitoneal bladder rupture secondary to hip fractues

Extraperitoneal bladder rupture

Most common type of bladder injury (80%–90% of cases).

‘Usually caused by penetrating trauma

In blunt trauma, the presumed mechanism is direct laceration of the bladder by bone fragments from a pelvic fracture.

CR cystography reveals a variable path of extravasated contrast material.

Combined bladder rupture

Simultaneous intraperitoneal and extraperitoneal injury.

CT cystography usually demonstrates extravasation patterns that are typical for both types of injury.