PROCEDURES
URETHRA
URETHRAL DILATATION
INTERNAL URETHROTOMY
URETHROPLASTY
URETHRAL DILATATION
OVERVIEW
Urethral Dilation, also known as meatal dilation is a procedure that is done to treat urethral strictures, where the urethra has narrowed as a result of inflammation, scar tissue, previous surgery, injury or trauma. Urethral strictures can cause pain during urination, as well as urethral discharge and swelling in the penis. Some patients may experience an inability to control urination, weak urine flow, and sudden urges to urinate frequently.
Men suffering from a stricture have increasing discomfort, which is a result of difficulty when urinating and holding the urine. In some cases, the problem occurs suddenly without prior difficulty that may require immediate care.
The ultimate goal for Urethral Dilation is to stretch the scar tissue while avoiding injury to the lining of the urethra.
For this procedure, you will be under general anaesthesia. During the dilation procedure, a special instrument known as a dilator is inserted into the urethra from the tip of the penis to stretch the urethra without causing any damage. In some cases, Dr Singh may recommend the placement of a permanent or temporary urinary catheter, although this is usually only done to treat severe urethral strictures. The catheter might be removed 72 hours after dilatation if the urethral dilatation was not complicated.
If strictures recur, you may need to repeat this procedure from time to time.
After the urethral dilatation, you will be moved to a recovery room for monitoring by Dr Kiran Singh. You may feel some pain or discomfort in your abdominal region as well as on your urethra. You will remain in hospital for at least two days depending on how quickly you recover. You will also have a catheter inserted in your urethra to drain the urine whilst your scarred tissue heals. You will be discharged once you are able to urinate on your own.
