What is Urethrotomy?

A urethrotomy is an operation performed for a stricture, when the urethra (waterpipe) becomes narrowed causing problems with the flow of urine.

This is usually caused by scar tissue formation, but sometimes the cause of this is unknown. Previous surgery, infections or trauma may cause the stricture to occur.

During the Operation: What to Expect

The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic. A telescope is passed up the urethra, which allows the surgeon to see the stricture. A small cut is then made in the narrowed area of the urethra to widen it. The operation itself usually takes 10-20 minutes.

After the Operation: What to Expect

You will be taken from the theatre to the recovery room, where you will be closely monitored until you are awake enough to return to the ward. You will usually have a catheter (tube) inserted into the bladder to drain your urine and to help the urethra to heal.

The catheter usually stays in place for 24-48 hours. Once your catheter is removed, you can usually go home that day, so long as you are able to pass urine freely.

Recovering at Home: What to Expect

It may be uncomfortable to pass urine for two to three days after you have been discharged from hospital. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to help improve these symptoms.

If your symptoms last longer than a week or you are worried about anything else then you should seek advice from your GP.

If at any time you cannot pass urine at all or start passing heavy blood clots you should call out your GP or go to your local A&E department.

Will I Regain Full Bladder Control?

Following removal of the catheter, it is usual to feel the need to pass urine more often than usual following your operation. This will settle down with time, once you start to heal. It takes time for the wound inside to heal and you may still experience symptoms until the wound has fully healed.

It may be necessary to repeat the operation in the future if there is any scarring or if the stricture reappears. If this happens you may also need to be taught self-dilatation to keep the stricture from recurring.

This is where you pass a fine catheter into your urethra twice a week then, once a week, then once a month. The urology nurse specialist will teach you this approximately one week after your discharge.

Recommended Fluid Intake

You should drink up to two litres per day for the first week, as this will help to wash away the blood and prevent infection. After this, you should try to drink more fluid than you would usually do. You may drink alcohol when you return home (in moderation).

Hospital Follow-Up Care

You will be sent an outpatient appointment to see your consultant six weeks to three months following discharge.

Possible Complications

All operations carry the risk of complications. However, general anaesthetics are very safe these days and you will have the opportunity to discuss these risks and complications with the anaesthetist prior to your operation.

Any form of surgery carries the risk of you developing a chest infection, a clot in your lung or leg, bleeding during or after surgery, or developing cardiac problems.

Your doctor will discuss all risks and complications with you when you attend the pre admission clinic.

Ready to Book or Talk Things Through?

Whether you’re ready to make an appointment or simply have questions, we’re here to help. Call +44 (0) 7746 299 121, email mail@urologyconsultant.co.uk or use the contact form.