Urethral strictureUrethral slit (Urethrotomy) for urethral strictures Urethral reconstruction (urethroplasty) for urethral strictures

Urethrotomy for urethral stricture

Endoscopic urethrotomy is the operation of choice for first-time narrowings of the urethra.

Urethrotomy for urethral stricture at a glance

Indication	First occurrence of a urethral stricture
Principle	endoscopic incision of the narrowing
Operating time	approx. 15 minutes
Hospital stay	1–2 nights
Note	Spinal anaesthesia or general anaesthesia

Questions about urethrotomy

The urethra is examined endoscopically from its opening along its natural course using a long, thin instrument. The endoscopic image is transmitted to a screen. The narrowing is then located. A small knife, which can be operated from outside, incises the narrowing to the normal width. At the end of the procedure, a catheter is inserted as a splint.

During the first 1–2 days, a catheter remains in the urinary bladder and ensures that the mucosa heals well. Only in rare cases does the catheter have to remain in place longer. Follow-up treatment includes regular check-ups in which the strength of the urine stream and correct bladder emptying are checked.

In addition to the general risks of any operation, such as bleeding or fever, injuries to the sphincter can occur in very rare cases if the narrowing is located in this area. The greatest risk is the recurrence of the narrowing. All possible risks of the surgical procedure are discussed in a detailed consultation before the operation.

Many patients can be helped permanently with a urethrotomy. However, as the urethra unfortunately tends to form scars, some patients develop a renewed narrowing after a few months to several years. Nevertheless, the procedure is convincing due to its relative ease of performance and its short duration.