Urethral stricture is an abnormal narrowing of the urethra (the tube that connects the bladder to the end of the penis that releases urine from the body). Urethral stricture may be caused by inflammation or scar tissue from surgery, disease, or injury. It may also be caused by external pressure from an enlarging tumor near the urethra, although this is rare.
Possible symptoms of urethral stricture include:
Dysuria (painful urination)
Difficulty urinating
Slow urine stream (may develop suddenly or gradually)
Spraying of urine stream
Decreased urine output
Increased urinary frequency or urgency
Incontinence (inability to control the passage of urine)
Blood in the semen
Pelvic pain
Lower abdominal pain
Bloody or dark urine
Discharge from the urethra
Swelling of the penis
Urinary retention
Diagnostic tools:
Physical exam
and history may reveal some of the signs and symptoms of urethral stricture and help the urologist determine the best treatment.
Possible tests include a urinalysis, which examines the urine, and a cystoscopy to confirm diagnosis.
Types of treatment: Suprapubic catheter: Placement of a tube directly in the bladder and brought out through the lower abdomen to drain the bladder.
Urethra dilation: Dilation of the urethra may be attempted by inserting a thin instrument to stretch the urethra under local anesthesia.
Surgery: Surgery may be needed if urethra dilation is not possible.
Cystoscopic visual urethrotomy: A urethral stent may be inserted thru the cystoscope for small strictures.
Open urethroplasty: Used for longer strictures to remove the diseased portion or replace it with healthy tissue
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