Long-term followup of endoscopic management of urethral strictures in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Urethral strictures in children present a significant clinical challenge.
• Endoscopic techniques offer a less invasive approach compared to open surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy of endoscopic management for pediatric urethral strictures.
• To assess factors influencing success rates and the need for repeat procedures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 31 children with urethral strictures treated endoscopically.
• Analysis of long-term follow-up data, including success rates and interventions.
• Evaluation of the role of intralesional steroids and repeat endoscopic procedures.

Main Results:

• An overall success rate of 87% was achieved with endoscopic management.
• Four patients (13%) required subsequent urethroplasty.
• Approximately one-third of patients needed repeat endoscopic procedures.
• Intralesional steroids were associated with an enhanced probability of success.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic management provides a durable and effective solution for pediatric urethral strictures.
• Repeat procedures and adjunctive therapies like intralesional steroids can optimize outcomes.
• This expanded series confirms favorable long-term results for the endoscopic approach.