Urethral dilation is the procedure of mechanically widening a stricture that develops in the urinary canal (urethra) using special sounds (dilators) or balloon systems.
The aim is to open the narrowed urinary canal to ease urine flow and to ensure complete emptying of the bladder.
Main Purpose
- To correct urine flow
- To improve bladder emptying
- To reduce complaints due to obstruction
- To alleviate the functional effect of the urethral stricture
In Which Situations Is It Applied?
1. Urethral strictures
- Strictures after trauma
- Strictures that develop after infection
- Iatrogenic strictures (after a catheter/probe)
2. Difficulty urinating
- Weak urine flow
- Intermittent urination
- A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
3. Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Cases of urinary stasis due to the stricture
How Is It Performed?
Urethral dilation can be applied by two main methods:
1. With a sound (metal/plastic dilator)
- Dilators of different thicknesses are used gradually
- The urethra is slowly widened
2. Balloon dilation
- A balloon is placed at the stricture site
- Widening is achieved by inflating it in a controlled way
Advantages
1. It is minimally invasive
- No surgical incision is required
2. It provides quick relief
- Urine flow can improve in a short time
3. It can be performed on an outpatient basis
- In many cases, hospitalization is not required
4. It is repeatable
- It can be applied again if necessary
Possible Risks
- Recurrence of the stricture
- Mild bleeding
- Risk of infection
- A temporary burning sensation after the procedure
- Rarely, urethral trauma
⏳ Effectiveness and Durability
Urethral dilation:
- Provides long-term relief in some patients
- In some patients, the stricture may recur
- The success rate varies according to the cause and length of the stricture
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it provide a permanent solution?
It varies according to the type, length and cause of the patient’s stricture. While permanent relief can be achieved in some cases, repeated application may be required in some patients.
Is the procedure painful?
Because it is usually performed under local anesthesia, minimal discomfort is felt.
Normal life after the procedure?
One can return to daily life within a short time, but there may be burning and tenderness for a few days.
Is it needed again?
Yes, it may be needed again, especially in cases where the narrowing is chronic.
Clinical Summary
Urethral dilation is a minimally invasive method that provides quick relief and is used in the treatment of urethral strictures. However, depending on the underlying cause of the stricture, repeated interventions may be required in some patients.
