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What Is Bladder Augmentation?

Bladder augmentation is surgery that makes the bladder larger, usually by attaching a section of intestine to it. It is also called augmentation cystoplasty. The procedure can increase urine storage capacity and reduce pressure inside the bladder. It may be considered when other treatments do not adequately manage a small or high-pressure bladder.

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What Is Bladder Augmentation?

Bladder augmentation is surgery that makes the bladder larger, usually by attaching a section of intestine to it. It is also called augmentation cystoplasty. The procedure can increase urine storage capacity and reduce pressure inside the bladder. It may be considered when other treatments do not adequately manage a small or high-pressure bladder.

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When Is Bladder Augmentation Considered?

A small or poorly stretching bladder can cause urine leakage or create pressure that threatens kidney health. Conditions affecting the nerves that control the bladder are among the possible causes. A urologist evaluates bladder function and prior treatments before recommending surgery. The goal is safer urine storage and improved bladder management.

How Is the Bladder Enlarged?

The surgeon takes a section of small or large intestine and opens it into a patch. This tissue is sewn to an opening in the bladder to increase its capacity. Temporary tubes drain the bladder while the repair heals. The operation may be performed through an abdominal incision or with a minimally invasive approach.

What Happens During Recovery?

A hospital stay is usually needed after bladder augmentation. The care team teaches catheter and bladder irrigation routines as healing progresses. Intestinal tissue continues to produce mucus after it is attached to the bladder, so regular flushing may be needed long term. Follow-up includes checks of bladder and kidney health.

What Are the Risks and Long-Term Care Needs?

Risks include infection, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and problems with the surgical repair. Mucus can block a catheter if it is not cleared as directed. Some people need regular self-catheterization to empty the enlarged bladder. Long-term monitoring may include kidney tests and checks for changes in body chemistry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bladder Augmentation

Is the original bladder removed?

Usually not. A section of intestine is attached to the existing bladder to make it larger.

Will catheterization be needed afterward?

Many people need to empty the bladder with a catheter after surgery. The care team explains the expected routine before the operation.

Why does an augmented bladder produce mucus?

The intestinal tissue used for the repair continues to make mucus. Regular irrigation helps prevent mucus from blocking drainage or contributing to stones.

Does bladder augmentation require long-term follow-up?

Yes. Ongoing care checks bladder emptying, infections, stones, kidney health, and other possible complications.

References

Augmentation cystoplasty: Contemporary indications, techniques and complications. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3822349/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Bladder Augmentation (Cystoplasty): Procedure & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15846-augmentation-cystoplasty-bladder-augmentation. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Bladder augmentation and Mitrofanoff. Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust. https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/procedures-and-treatments/bladder-augmentation-and-mitrofanoff/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Cystoplasty (Bladder Augmentation). Baylor Scott & White Health. https://www.bswhealth.com/treatments-and-procedures/cystoplasty. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Enlargement of the bladder using a segment of bowel (augmentation cystoplasty). Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. https://www.newcastle-hospitals.nhs.uk/services/urology/urology-reconstruction-and-continence/enlargement-of-the-bladder-using-a-segment-of-bowel-augmentation-cystoplasty/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.