[Causes and prevention of complications in transurethral interventions. Interventions in the urethra]

The male urethra is extremely vulnerable because of the peculiar morphology. Many urethral lesions and their sequelae are due to the disproportion between the diameter of the urethra and the applied instrument. In order to adjust both calibers it is advisable to use an internal urethrotomy in stead of bougies. Complications which may be caused by catheterisation, and by the treatment of meatal stenosis or urethral strictures and how to avoid them are discussed. In spite of improvements in transurethral equipment and careful transurethral operative technique, perioperative prophylaxis with potent antibiotics, is recommended in order to prevent late complications due to infections.