Treatment

Urethroplasty

Overview

Urethroplasty is a surgical procedure used to repair and reconstruct the urethra — the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. It is often performed when the urethra becomes narrowed or blocked, a condition known as urethral stricture. This treatment helps restore normal urine flow and improve urinary function. Urethroplasty is considered one of the most effective treatments for long-term relief from urethral strictures.

Why Urethroplasty is Required?

• When a urethral stricture severely narrows the urethra and affects urine flow.
• In cases where urinary tract infections become frequent due to urethral blockage.
• When previous treatments like dilation or internal urethrotomy fail.
• To relieve symptoms such as weak urine stream, incomplete emptying, dribbling or urinary retention.
• In situations where scarring from past trauma, infection or catheter use has damaged the urethra.
• For those needing reconstruction of urethra due to congenital issues or surgeries.

Key Advantages of Urethroplasty Treatment

• Permanent solution for most urethral strictures.
• Improved urine flow and bladder emptying.
• Lower recurrence rate compared to other urethral procedures.
• Helps avoid frequent catheterization or repeated minor surgeries.
• Better quality of life post-surgery, especially in terms of comfort and confidence.
• Can be used for urethra surgery for males and females effectively.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Urethroplasty Treatment

• Follow your doctor’s instructions for fasting before surgery.
• Disclose any medications or blood thinners you are taking.
• Stop smoking if possible — it helps with faster healing.
• Complete all pre-operative tests like urine analysis, imaging, or flow studies.
• Arrange for help post-surgery, as you’ll need rest and support at home.
• Discuss expectations about life after urethroplasty to understand recovery better.

How Urethroplasty Treatment is Performed?

• A surgical incision of the urethra is made to access the narrowed segment.
• The stricture is either removed, opened up or replaced using tissue from another body part (often from the mouth or skin).
• This process is called urethral reconstruction or urethroplasty surgery.
• It can be done under general or spinal anesthesia and usually takes a few hours.
• A catheter is placed temporarily to allow healing and urine drainage.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Evaluation by a urologist.
• Imaging tests to measure the stricture length and severity.
• Anesthesia discussion and hospital admission.
• During Procedure:
• The actual urethra operation will be done through careful incisions.
• The narrowed portion is repaired or replaced.
• A catheter is placed to help the urethra heal properly.
• After Procedure:
• Hospital stay for a day or two depending on the case.
• Catheter remains for 1–3 weeks.
• Follow-up includes catheter removal, healing check and urethral function test.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Bleeding or infection at the surgical site.
• Urine leakage around the catheter or during healing.
• Stricture recurrence, though rare with this procedure.
• Erectile dysfunction or reduced sensation, rarely.
• Scar tissue development or need for revision surgery in some cases.

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients experience complete relief from symptoms.
• Normal urine flow resumes within a few weeks post-catheter removal.
• Long-lasting solution with low recurrence.
• Life after urethroplasty often involves improved comfort and reduced urinary issues.
• Regular follow-ups are advised to monitor healing and function.