Item Number: 37327

Why is it done?

  • To treat a narrowing in the urethra which has formed due to previous damage/injury to the urethra.
  • Causes: after bypass surgery where a drop in blood pressure has caused an area of low blood supply to the urethra; trauma to the urethra (pelvic fractures/ urethral instrumentation); and sexually transmitted diseases.
  • The procedure entails cutting the stricture with a cold knife.
  • It also prevents eventual kidney damage/failure.

 

How is it done?

  • A urethroscopy is performed by placing a camera in the urethra, with the help of a  lubricant jelly and an irrigant fluid, to identify the stricture.
  • A cold knife is then used to cut the stricture open.
  • The inside of the bladder is viewed for pathology.
  • If any suspicious lesions are seen, a biopsy will be taken.
  • Prophylactic antibiotics may be given to prevent infection.

 

Complications

Side–effects

  • Patients will spend the night in the hospital.
  • Patients will be sent home with a catheter for 3 days after receiving thorough catheter care Instructions.
  • Arrangements will be made to remove the catheter on day 3.
  • There may be some blood in the urine. This can be remedied by drinking plenty of fluids until it clears.

 

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Copyright 2019 Dr Jo Schoeman