Trans-trigonal phenol failed the test of time

The results following 94 trans-trigonal phenol injections in 60 patients over a 5-year period are analysed. In only 1 patient was there a lasting effect. The others all required alternative treatment for bladder instability, hyper-reflexia or hypersensitivity. Older patients with normal bladder compliance and patients with a neuropathic aetiology had slightly better results but also failed to derive lasting benefit. The complications associated with the treatment and the general anaesthetic outweigh the transient benefits of this technique.