What is a common sign associated with posterior urethral injury?

Blood in the meatus is a common sign associated with posterior urethral injury. This finding is particularly significant in patients who have sustained pelvic trauma. The presence of blood at the urethral opening suggests that there may be an injury to the urinary tract, specifically involving the urethra. It is critical for healthcare providers to perform further evaluation, often with imaging or a cystoscopy, to assess the extent of the injury and plan appropriate management.

Other symptoms, while they may occur in various contexts, are not specific indicators of posterior urethral injury. Severe abdominal pain can indicate a range of abdominal and pelvic injuries but is not uniquely tied to urethral injuries. Frequent urination may occur with different urinary tract conditions, but it does not specifically signal a posterior urethral injury. High fever is more indicative of an infection or inflammatory process rather than a direct result of urethral damage. Therefore, the presence of blood in the meatus stands out as a crucial indicator that warrants immediate attention in assessing possible urinary tract injuries, particularly following trauma.