A urethral stricture is a medical condition that results in the narrowing of the urethra, leading to obstruction and difficulty in urination. This condition can cause discomfort and a range of urinary issues. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications, and Dr. Pruthvi Raj Honnaiah offers specialized care for patients with urethral stricture, helping them manage the condition effectively.

Causes of Urethral Stricture

The primary causes of urethral stricture include:

• Injury or Trauma: Accidental injury to the urethra, often during surgery or trauma to the pelvic region.
• Infection: Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea or chlamydia can lead to scarring and narrowing of the urethra.
• Catheterization: Long-term use of urinary catheters or procedures like cystoscopy can lead to damage or scarring of the urethra.
• Congenital Conditions: Some individuals are born with a naturally narrow urethra.
• Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions like prostatitis or urethritis can cause inflammation and lead to scarring.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): An enlarged prostate can sometimes contribute to urethral stricture formation.
• Radiation Therapy: Patients who have undergone radiation therapy for pelvic cancers may develop scarring that leads to stricture formation.

Symptoms of Urethral Stricture

The symptoms of urethral stricture can vary depending on the severity of the narrowing. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or discomfort during urination.
• Weak or slow urine stream.
• Straining or difficulty starting urination.
• Frequent urination or urgency to urinate.
• Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder after urination.
• Blood in the urine (hematuria) in more severe cases.
• Inability to urinate in extreme cases (urinary retention).

Diagnosis of Urethral Stricture

To diagnose a urethral stricture, a doctor will typically perform the following:

• Physical Examination: The doctor may perform a digital rectal exam or examine the genitals for signs of injury or infection.
• Urinary Flow Test: A test to measure the rate and flow of urine to check for any blockages or obstructions.
• Urethrogram: A special X-ray procedure where a contrast dye is injected into the urethra to visualize the narrowing.
• Cystoscopy: A procedure where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the urethra to directly observe the extent of the stricture.
• Ultrasound or MRI: Imaging tests may be used to get detailed views of the urethra and surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options for Urethral Stricture

Treatment for urethral stricture aims to alleviate symptoms and restore normal urine flow. Options include:

• Urethral Dilation: A non-surgical procedure where a doctor gradually enlarges the urethra using specialized instruments or balloon dilation.
• Urethrotomy: A surgical procedure to cut and remove the scar tissue causing the stricture, restoring normal urine flow.
• Urethroplasty: A more advanced surgical technique where the narrowed part of the urethra is removed and reconstructed with healthy tissue.
• Catheterization: In cases where the stricture causes urinary retention, a catheter may be inserted temporarily to drain the bladder.
• Antibiotics: If infection is contributing to the stricture, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection.
• Laser Surgery: Laser surgery can be used to remove the stricture or scar tissue, improving urinary flow and reducing symptoms.

Why Choose Dr. Pruthvi Raj for Urethral Stricture Treatment?

Dr. Pruthvi Raj Honnaiah specializes in the treatment of urethral stricture with advanced techniques aimed at restoring normal urinary function. With years of expertise, he provides personalized care to ensure effective treatment and prevent recurrence of the stricture. If you are suffering from urethral stricture, Dr. Raj will help guide you through your treatment options to achieve the best possible outcome.