The Barbagli technique: 3-year experience with a modified approach.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Techniques
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Transurethral treatments for urethral strictures have limited long-term success.
• Open urethral reconstruction, such as the Barbagli technique, offers better long-term results.
• The original Barbagli technique has a drawback in suturing urethral margins due to limited visualization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the recurrence rate and patient satisfaction with a modified Barbagli technique for urethral stricture.
• To assess the functional outcomes of the modified Barbagli technique.
• To determine if the modification simplifies the original technique without compromising results.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 18 patients treated with a modified Barbagli technique between May 2008 and September 2010.
• Assessment of recurrence, complications, incontinence, erectile function, and patient satisfaction via chart review and questionnaires.
• The modified technique involves rotating the mobilized urethra 180° for better visualization during buccal mucosa suturing.

Main Results:

• A success rate of 83.2% was observed in the 18 patients available for follow-up.
• No new erectile dysfunction or significant penile curvature occurred post-surgery.
• 83.3% of recurrence-free patients reported high satisfaction with the surgical outcome, with only 9% experiencing oral numbness.

Conclusions:

• The modified Barbagli technique simplifies the original procedure while maintaining functional results.
• Improved visualization of mucosal margins during anastomosis enhances the technique.
• The modified technique achieves success rates comparable to the original Barbagli procedure with high patient satisfaction.