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.
Copyright 2019 Dr Jo Schoeman