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?

1. Before Procedure:

Evaluation by a urologist.

Imaging tests to measure the stricture length and severity.

Anesthesia discussion and hospital admission.

2. 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.

3. 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.