Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy control of intractable hematuria following radiation-induced hemorrhagic cystitis. A novel approach.

OBJECTIVE: To establish the utility of endoscopic sclerotherapy using 1% ethoxysclerol for the control of intractable hematuria following post-irradiation telangiectatic cystitis (PTC).

METHODS: Our experience of treating 4 patients (one female and three male) with massive exsanguinating hematuria resulting from PTC, using a combined intralesional and perilesional injection of 1% ethoxysclerol, is presented. Observation on the distribution, grading of telangiectasis and pattern of bleeding are made.

RESULTS: A dramatic and lasting cessation of the hematuria in all the 4 patients was achieved during the follow-up period varying from 1 month to 4 years.

CONCLUSION: Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy is a simple, highly effective, less invasive new technique in the management of massive and intractable hematuria due to radiation-induced telangiectasia of the urinary bladder.