Urethroplasty
Procedure Overview
Urethroplasty is reconstructive surgery to repair a urethral stricture, offering the most durable long-term solution among stricture treatments. Depending on the stricture's length and location, the repair may use the patient's own tissue as a graft.
Who Needs It
Urethroplasty is typically recommended for longer strictures or those that have recurred after simpler treatments like dilation or internal urethrotomy.
Preparation
Preparation includes a retrograde urethrogram to map the stricture, cystoscopy, general health assessment, and fasting before anesthesia.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Anesthesia
General or spinal anesthesia is administered.
15–20 minStricture Exposure
The narrowed segment of the urethra is carefully exposed and assessed.
30–45 minExcision or Graft Reconstruction
The scarred segment is removed and reconstructed, using a tissue graft for longer strictures.
60–120 minCatheter Placement
A catheter is placed to support healing while the repair settles.
5 minWound Closure
The surgical site is closed in layers.
20 minBenefits
- ✓Highest long-term success rate among stricture treatments
- ✓Durable, often one-time definitive solution
- ✓Significant, lasting improvement in urine flow
Recovery Timeline
A catheter typically stays in place for 2–3 weeks while the repair heals, confirmed by a follow-up urethrogram before removal. Activity is gradually increased over the following weeks.
Cost & Insurance
- • Stricture length and complexity
- • Whether a tissue graft is required
Related Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra caused by scar tissue, restricting urine flow. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
A progressively weak or spraying urine stream, straining, and incomplete emptying are the classic signs. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Causes include injury, prior catheter use or surgery, infections, and certain inflammatory skin conditions. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
A flow test, retrograde urethrogram X-ray, and sometimes cystoscopy confirm the stricture's location and length. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Options range from dilation and internal urethrotomy for simple strictures to urethroplasty for longer or recurrent ones. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?