Urinary Retention a Rare Cause of Bowel Obstruction: A Case Report

Abstract

A 60-year-old man presented to the emergency department with diffuse abdominal pain without passing stool or gas since 4 days. The diagnostic work-up included a plain abdominal radiograph and an abdominal computed tomography scan that revealed small-bowel obstruction with a rare cause. The obstruction was secondary to external compression by a distended bladder. The immediate management was insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter. We suggested re-evaluation, and after several hours the symptoms resolved. Although rare, pressure from the distended bladder due to urinary retention can cause complete bowel obstruction.