[Management of urethral stricture]

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Urethral strictures are common, frequently affecting the bulbar urethra but also occurring in penile, glandular, or membranous regions.
• Iatrogenic causes are a significant factor in the development of urethral strictures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline diagnostic and treatment strategies for urethral strictures.
• To emphasize the importance of timely surgical intervention for optimal outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Radiologic diagnosis using cystourethrography.
• Surgical interventions including Sachse urethrotomy, end-to-end anastomosis, graft/flap urethroplasty, and perineal urethrostomy.

Main Results:

• Cystourethrography provides an easy and safe method for diagnosis.
• Sachse urethrotomy offers permanent relief for short, initial bulbar strictures.
• Open surgery is essential for recurrent strictures or those in other locations, offering the only chance for a cure.

Conclusions:

• Treatment choice depends on stricture location, recurrence, and patient comorbidities.
• Delayed open surgery can lead to disease progression and a poorer prognosis, irrespective of treatment modality.