Subcutaneous rupture of the urinary bladder

Fourteen patients operated upon for subcutaneous bladder perforation are reported. The majority of the patients (11/14) had intraperitoneal rupture of the bladder and multiple associated injuries (10/14), most often pelvic fractures (9/14). In 12 patients the injury was caused by a road traffic accident. 2 patients with extraperitoneal rupture presented with a typical history of a blow or kick in the lower abdomen following a drinking session. In doubtful cases cystography was the diagnostic method of choice. The principles of treatment we recommend are well known: urinary drainage with a catheter in all cases, and in intraperitoneal ruptures, prompt surgery.