What is a Urethral Stricture?

A urethral stricture is a condition where the urethra becomes abnormally narrowed due to scar tissue formation. This narrowing restricts the normal flow of urine, leading to difficulty urinating, discomfort, and potential complications such as infections or bladder damage. Urethral strictures can develop from trauma, infections, previous medical procedures, or congenital conditions.

Symptoms of Urethral Stricture

Symptoms can vary in severity but often include:

• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Straining to urinate
• Incomplete bladder emptying
• Increased frequency of urination
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Blood in the urine (haematuria)

Causes of Urethral Stricture

• Trauma or Injury – Pelvic fractures, direct trauma, or catheterisation can lead to scarring
• Surgical Procedures – Past urethral or prostate surgeries may contribute to stricture formation
• Infections – Sexually transmitted infections (e.g., gonorrhoea, chlamydia) and urinary tract infections
• Congenital Abnormalities – Some individuals may be born with a predisposition to urethral strictures

Treatment for Urethral Stricture

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the stricture:

• Urethral Dilation – A minimally invasive technique using special instruments to gradually widen the stricture
• Urethrotomy – Endoscopic surgery where the scar tissue is cut to restore urine flow
• Urethroplasty – A reconstructive surgical approach where the narrowed segment is repaired or replaced using grafts from surrounding tissue