Urethroplasty - Op. Dr. Fettah Tosun

What Is Urethroplasty?

Urethroplasty is a reconstructive surgical procedure performed to repair strictures (narrowing) of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. Urethral strictures can obstruct urine flow, negatively affect quality of life, and lead to more serious urinary tract complications if left untreated.

Urethroplasty is considered one of the most effective and durable treatment options for urethral stricture disease.

What Causes Urethral Stricture?

Urethral strictures can develop for various reasons. When narrowing occurs, urine flow may become restricted, affecting bladder function and overall urinary health.

Causes of urethral stricture may include:

Previous urological surgeries
Urinary tract infections
Trauma and accidents
Pelvic injuries
Long-term catheter use
Endoscopic procedures
Congenital urethral abnormalities

What Are the Symptoms of Urethral Stricture?

Urethral strictures may initially present with mild symptoms. As the narrowing progresses, symptoms can become more severe.

Symptoms of urethral stricture include:

Weak urinary stream
Difficulty urinating
Frequent urination
Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Pain or burning during urination
Urinary incontinence
Inability to urinate in advanced cases

Since these symptoms can also occur in other urological conditions, evaluation by a specialist is essential.

How Is Urethroplasty Performed?

Different surgical techniques may be used depending on the location, length, and severity of the urethral stricture.

For short-segment strictures, the narrowed section may be removed and the healthy ends of the urethra reconnected. For longer strictures, tissue grafts such as buccal mucosa (tissue taken from the inside of the cheek) may be used to reconstruct the urethra.

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.

What Is Buccal Mucosal Urethroplasty?

Buccal mucosal urethroplasty is an advanced urethral reconstruction technique that uses tissue harvested from the inner lining of the cheek.

This method provides high success rates, particularly in the treatment of long-segment urethral strictures.

Advantages of buccal mucosal urethroplasty include:

High success rates
Long-lasting outcomes
Excellent tissue compatibility
Effective treatment for recurrent strictures
Preservation of urethral function

What Are the Benefits of Urethroplasty?

Urethroplasty is one of the most effective treatments for achieving a long-term solution to urethral stricture disease.

Benefits of urethroplasty include:

High success rates
Potential for permanent treatment
Restoration of normal urine flow
Improved quality of life
Reduced need for repeated procedures
Protection of bladder and kidney function

What Should Be Considered After Urethroplasty?

Following surgery, patients should carefully follow their physician’s recommendations to ensure proper healing and optimal outcomes.

Recommendations after urethroplasty include:

Attending regular follow-up appointments
Following catheter care instructions
Drinking plenty of fluids
Avoiding heavy physical activities
Taking prescribed medications as directed
Seeking medical attention if signs of infection occur

Frequently Asked Questions About Urethroplasty

What Is Urethroplasty?

Urethroplasty is a reconstructive surgical procedure performed to repair and restore narrowed sections of the urethra.

Is Urethroplasty a Permanent Treatment?

Yes. Urethroplasty is one of the most successful treatment options for urethral strictures and can provide long-term, durable results.

How Long Does Urethroplasty Surgery Take?

The duration of surgery depends on the length of the stricture and the surgical technique used, but it generally takes between 2 and 4 hours.

How Long Is a Catheter Kept in Place After Urethroplasty?

The duration of catheterization varies according to the type of surgery performed, but in most patients, the catheter remains in place for approximately 2 to 3 weeks.

How Long Does Recovery Take After Urethroplasty?

Most patients can return to their daily activities within a few weeks. Complete recovery may vary depending on the surgical technique used and the patient’s overall health condition.