Urethral stricture is a medical condition in which the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, becomes abnormally narrowed or constricted. This narrowing can lead to a variety of urinary problems, such as difficulty passing urine, weak urine flow, pain or discomfort during urination, increased frequency of urination, and urinary retention.
What are the Causes of Urethral Stricture?
Urethral strictures can be caused by several factors, including:
- Trauma or injury to the urethra or pelvic areas, such as from a catheter, surgery, or an accident.
- Inflammation or infection can lead to scarring and tissue damage.
- Congenital abnormalities, meaning the stricture are present from birth.
- Repeated episodes of urethritis, the inflammation of the urethra, can be caused due to infection, injury, or irritation.
What are the Symptoms of Urethral Stricture?
Coping with the following symptoms may indicate that you have a urethral stricture.
- Weak urine flow.
- Difficulty in urination.
- Urine flow may start and stop.
- Exerting additional effort to push the urine out.
- Pain and discomfort in urination.
- Frequent urination, and inability to completely empty the bladder.
- Swelling of the penis.
How to Diagnose Urethral Stricture
The diagnostic approach may vary depending on the individual patient’s symptoms. Some of the common diagnostic methods include:
Physical Examination:
The doctor may perform a genital examination to check for any signs of infection or injury.
Urine Sample:
The urologist can also collect your urine sample and then analyze it to understand the core issues.
Urethroscopy:
In some cases, the doctor can insert a small, flexible camera into the urethra to examine the inside situation of the urethra.
Post-void Residual Urine Measurement:
PVR is carried out after the patient urinates. The healthcare provider can use an ultrasound to measure the amount of urine left in the bladder.
Treatment for Urethral Stricture in Dubai
Endoscopic Incision of Urethral Stricture
Endoscopic incision of urethral stricture, also known as direct vision internal urethrotomy (DVIU) or optical urethrotomy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat urethral strictures.
Endoscopic incision (DVIU) is generally more effective for short strictures. However, longer or recurrent strictures may require procedures like urethroplasty.
Procedure
The procedure is typically performed under local, regional, or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference and the surgeon’s recommendation.
The procedure involves using an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light, and a camera at the end, to visualize the narrowed area of the urethra. A small blade or laser is then used to make incisions in the scar tissue, allowing the urethra to expand and improve urine flow.
Post-Procedure
After the procedure, a temporary urinary catheter may be placed to help the urethra heal and to prevent the formation of new strictures. This catheter is usually removed after a few days to a week.
Advantages of Endoscopic Incision
Endoscopic incision of urethral stricture has some advantages over other treatment options, such as a shorter hospital stay, quicker recovery time, and reduced pain compared to open surgical procedures. However, the recurrence rate of urethral stricture after DVIU can be relatively high, with some studies suggesting a recurrence rate of 30-70% within the first year.
Book your Appointment
If you suspect you have a urethral stricture or are expecting any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Euromed Clinic Dubai is available at your service. Book your appointment with our qualified urologists by calling us at +971 4 394 5422 or filling out the following form.
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