[Endoscopic aspects of posterior urethral valve]

Most congenital posterior urethral valves arise from the urethral crest, just below the veru montanum. Urethral diaphragms have been well identified but the concept of valves running from the vern to the bladder neck is questionable. Despite advances in non-invasive investigations, the accurate identification of urethral valves can be achieved only by endoscopy. Such an exploration is required to define the mechanism of urethral obstruction and therefore to provide an appropriate endoscopic treatment. The age, the clinical condition of the child and the size of his penis and meatus might sometimes delay urethral endoscopy for some months in order to avoid secondary urethral stenosis.