Treatment – Urethra disorders
- Blockage / Stricture of the Urethra
Treatment involves urethrotomy (passing an instrument such as an urethrotome up the urethra). The narrowed part of the urethra is widened with a cut.
The stricture may return and if so, a repeat urethrotomy may be performed. Failing that, urethroplasty (a permanent repair operation, where the stricture is removed and the two healthy ends of the urethra are joined up again. A catheter is kept in place in the urethra for at least 2 weeks to enable the urethra to heal correctly). Both operations take place under a general anaesthetic.
The other alternative is intermittent self-dilatation with a catheter.
Note:
Catheters can be left in place and changed every 10 to 12 weeks.
- Infection of the Urethra (Urethritis)
Treatment depends on the organism responsible. See information for treatment of bladder infection (Cystitis).
- Trauma
It is surgically correctable, by urethrotomy or urethroplasty.
Failing that, a suprapubic catheter (a catheter, which is passed through the abdominal wall directly into the bladder) may be used. Catheters are made of silicone and need only to be changed every 10 to 12 weeks.
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Amended June 2008
