Urethral stricture

Treatment

Placement of a suprapubic catheter, which allows the bladder to drain through the abdomen, may be necessary to alleviate acute problems such as urinary retention.

Dilation of the urethra may be attempted by inserting a thin instrument to stretch the urethra under local anesthesia. If urethral dilation is not possible, surgery may be necessary to correct the condition. Surgical options vary depending on the location and the length of the stricture.

Cystoscopic visual urethrotomy may be all that is needed for small stricture. A urethral stent may be inserted thru the cystoscope.

An open urethroplasty may be performed for longer stricture by removing the diseased portion or replacing it with other tissue. The results vary depending on the size and location of urethroplasty, the number of prior therapies, and the experience of the surgeon.

There are no drug treatments currently available for this disease. If all else fails, a urinary diversion -- appendicovesicostomy (Mitrofanoff procedure) -- may be performed to allow the patient to perform self-catheterization of the bladder through the abdominal wall.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Treatment usually results in an excellent outcome. However, repeated therapies may be needed to remove the scar tissue.

Possible Complications

Urethral stricture may totally block urine flow, causing acute urinary retention, a condition that must be alleviated quickly.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if symptoms of urethral stricture occur.