Introduction
The urethra plays a crucial role in the
body by expelling urine and facilitating ejaculation in men. When this thin
tube becomes narrowed or blocked due to scarring caused by injury, infection,
or inflammation, the condition is termed urethral
stricture disease. This condition can significantly impact a person’s
quality of life, causing discomfort and urinary difficulties.
In this blog, we’ll explore the causes,
symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for urethral stricture disease.
Understanding the Urethra
The urethra differs in length between men
and women. In men, the urethra is approximately 10-12 inches long and serves
both urinary and reproductive functions. It is divided into two sections:
- Posterior Urethra (First 1-2 inches)
○
Includes the bladder neck,
prostatic urethra, membranous urethra, and the external urinary sphincter.
- Anterior Urethra (Last 9-10
inches)
○
Includes the bulbar urethra,
penile urethra, and meatus (urethral opening).
Causes of Urethral
Stricture
Urethral strictures are more common in
men due to their longer urethra. Some common causes include:
●
Injuries: Trauma to the urethra or pelvis,
such as falls or pelvic fractures.
●
Infections: Sexually transmitted infections
(e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia) or chronic infections.
●
Medical Procedures: Damage caused by
catheters, endoscopic surgeries, or other instruments.
●
Inflammatory Conditions: Swelling due to
medical conditions like lichen sclerosus.
In some cases, no clear cause is
identified.
Symptoms of Urethral
Stricture
When the urethra narrows, the flow of
urine is restricted, leading to noticeable symptoms such as:
●
Decreased or slow urine stream.
●
Pain during urination (dysuria).
●
Frequent urinary tract infections
(UTIs).
●
Blood in urine or semen.
●
Difficulty emptying the bladder.
●
Swelling of the penis.
●
Urinary retention or loss of
bladder control.
Severe cases may lead to kidney damage if
left untreated.
Diagnosis
Timely diagnosis is critical to managing
urethral stricture effectively. A urologist may use the following diagnostic
tools:
- Physical Examination: Assessing symptoms and medical history.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays,
ultrasound, or retrograde
urethrography to identify the location and severity of the stricture.
- Urethroscopy: Direct visualization of the urethra using a flexible scope.
Treatment Options
The choice of treatment depends on the
length, severity, and location of the stricture.
1. Dilation
A simple procedure where the urethra is
gradually stretched using special instruments. This is often performed under
local anesthesia.
2. Urethrotomy ( OIU / LASER )
A minimally invasive procedure involving
a scope to cut through the scar tissue and widen the urethra.
3. Urethroplasty ( End – End / Buccal Mucosal
Graft Urethroplasty)
Surgical reconstruction of the urethra,
often involving grafts from the patient’s tissue.
4. Perineal Urethrostomy
A last-resort procedure where the urethra
is rerouted to an opening behind the scrotum for urination.
Prevention Tips
Preventing urethral stricture involves:
●
Practicing safe sex to avoid
infections.
●
Avoiding unnecessary
catheterization or trauma to the urethra.
●
Seeking prompt treatment for
urinary symptoms.
Why Choose Dr. Venkatesh
Kumar for Urethral Stricture Treatment?
Dr. Venkatesh Kumar is a renowned urologist, sexologist, and robotic surgeon
based in Noida. With years of expertise, advanced facilities, and a
patient-centric approach, Dr. Kumar offers personalized care for urethral
stricture and other urological conditions.
Conclusion
Urethral stricture disease is a
manageable condition with timely diagnosis and treatment. If you’re
experiencing symptoms or have concerns, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist.
Early intervention can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.
For
Appointments:
📍 Visit Dr. Venkatesh Kumar at [Your Clinic
Name] in Noida.
📞 Call: [Your Contact Number]
🌐 Website: [Your Website URL]
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