Urethroplasty
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Specialized Urethroplasty Solutions for Complex Urethral Strictures
Urethroplasty is a specialized reconstructive surgical procedure performed to treat urethral stricture, a condition where narrowing of the urethra restricts normal urine flow and causes discomfort, infections, or urinary retention. This advanced surgery restores the normal diameter of the urethra, improving urinary function and long-term quality of life. The procedure is recommended for patients with recurrent strictures, trauma-related damage, or failed previous treatments. Using modern surgical techniques and precise evaluation, urethroplasty offers a high success rate with durable results. Personalized care, careful planning, and post-operative follow-up ensure faster recovery, reduced recurrence risk, and improved urinary health outcomes for patients.
What is a urethral stricture?
A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. Scar tissue forms after injury (a fall astride, pelvic fracture), infection, long-term catheter use, previous endoscopic surgery or skin conditions such as lichen sclerosus. Over time the narrowing tightens and the bladder has to strain to empty.
Symptoms
- A weak, thin or spraying urine stream, and taking long to empty
- Straining, dribbling after urination, or a feeling of incomplete emptying
- Repeated urine infections or burning
- Sudden inability to pass urine (retention), which needs urgent care
Tests
- Uroflowmetry to measure the stream
- Ultrasound to check residual urine and the kidneys
- Retrograde urethrogram (RGU) and micturating cystourethrogram (MCU) to show the exact site and length of the stricture
- Urethroscopy where needed
Treatment options
Optical internal urethrotomy (OIU / DVIU): an endoscopic cut through a short, first-time stricture. It is quick, but strictures often return, so repeated cutting or dilatation is not a long-term solution.
Urethroplasty: open reconstruction that gives the best long-term results, especially for long or recurrent strictures.
- Excision and primary anastomosis (EPA): the scarred segment is removed and healthy ends joined. Ideal for short bulbar strictures
- Buccal mucosa graft (BMG) urethroplasty: tissue from the inside of the cheek widens longer strictures
- Staged urethroplasty for complex or penile strictures, and posterior urethroplasty after pelvic fracture injuries
Recovery
- Hospital stay of about 2–4 days
- A catheter stays for 2–3 weeks while the repair heals, followed by an X-ray check
- Mild cheek soreness after a buccal graft settles in a few days
- Follow-up with flow tests to confirm a good stream over time
Choosing the right operation first time matters, because every failed procedure makes the next one harder. Dr. Bivek Kumar plans each repair based on the stricture’s length, site and cause.
Urethroplasty in Koramangala and Bellandur
Dr. Bivek Kumar (MCh Urology, FRSM) has more than 18 years of experience and over 11,000 urological surgeries. He consults at Superhealth Hospital, Koramangala (Mon–Sat, 9 am–6 pm) and Nelivigi Multispeciality Hospital, Bellandur (Tue, Thu & Sat, 7–8 pm; Sunday by appointment only), in English, Hindi, Kannada and Bengali. Book an appointment or call to discuss your reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Urethroplasty is a surgical reconstruction of the urethra to permanently treat urethral stricture disease.
Patients experiencing weak urine flow, repeated urinary infections, or recurrent urethral narrowing may require this surgery.
Unlike temporary treatments, urethroplasty provides a long-term solution with higher success rates.
It is a reconstructive procedure performed under anesthesia but is considered safe when done by experienced specialists.
Recurrence is uncommon when surgery is performed correctly and follow-up care is maintained.
Related treatments & reading
Book a consultation with Dr Bivek Kumar: Superhealth Hospital, Koramangala (Mon–Sat, 9 am–6 pm) or Nelivigi Hospital, Bellandur (Tue, Thu & Sat, 7–8 pm; Sunday by appointment only). See all clinic locations, OPD timings & directions →