Optical Internal Urethrotomy (OIU) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat urethral stricture. A urethral stricture occurs when scar tissue narrows a part of the urethra, making it difficult for urine to pass normally.
During OIU, a specialized endoscopic instrument is passed through the urethra to identify the narrowed segment. The scar tissue is then carefully incised to widen the urethral passage and improve urine flow.
Urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra caused by scar tissue. It can develop following infection, injury, instrumentation, previous surgery or other causes.
The narrowing may gradually affect urinary flow and, if significant, can lead to incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention.
OIU may be considered for selected patients with urethral stricture, particularly when the narrowing is suitable for endoscopic treatment.
OIU is performed using an endoscopic instrument that is introduced through the natural urinary passage. The surgeon locates the narrowed section of the urethra and makes controlled incisions in the scar tissue to open the narrowed area.
A urinary catheter may be placed temporarily after the procedure to allow the urethra to heal and maintain urine drainage.
A detailed evaluation is performed before deciding whether OIU is appropriate. Depending on the patient's symptoms and history, assessment may include:
Recovery varies depending on the location and severity of the stricture and the individual patient's condition. A catheter may remain in place for a period recommended by the treating urologist.
Patients are usually advised to follow postoperative instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments to assess urinary flow and monitor for recurrence.
Urethral stricture can recur after OIU, particularly in certain types of strictures. The likelihood of recurrence depends on factors such as the length, location and characteristics of the stricture and whether previous treatments have been performed.
If a stricture repeatedly returns or is not suitable for endoscopic treatment, urethroplasty may be considered.
As with any surgical procedure, OIU may have potential risks, including:
The choice between OIU and urethroplasty depends on the type, location, length and severity of the urethral stricture, as well as previous treatments.
OIU may be suitable for selected strictures, while urethroplasty is a reconstructive procedure that may be recommended for longer, recurrent or more complex strictures.
Consult Dr. Jaspreet Singh Chhabra for evaluation and individualized treatment of urethral stricture.
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