A urethral stricture results when scar tissue narrows the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
This scar tissue slows the flow of urine and leads to other medical problems, including an increased risk for infection or inflammation.
Common signs and symptoms of this urology condition include:
Doctors diagnose urethral strictures after reviewing a patient’s medical history, performing a physical examination, a urinalysis, and also studying the results of imaging tests.
The imaging tests that help the doctor determine the exact location and size of the stricture include:
In order to find the underlying cause of the urethral stricture, the doctor may request a urine or urethral culture to test for STDs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, a prostate exam, or a prostate cancer screening.
Urethral strictures will not go away on their own and medications may have limited effects. In most cases, doctors recommend surgery for those who experience uncomfortable symptoms, especially if the patient experiences:
Depending on the severity and location of the stricture, a doctor may opt for different surgical techniques like:
In certain situations, gentle stretching of the urethra of endoscopic cutting of a stricture will relieve the blockage.
Urethral strictures can develop from different causes. Some of the most commonly seen include:
Urethral strictures are much more common in men and are rare in women.
Loyola Medicine is nationally recognized for its expertise in diagnosing and treating a broad range of urologic conditions and providing integrated services for optimal patient care. Schedule an appointment today.