The two main techniques
Which operation you need is decided by the length and location of the stricture on the urethrogram, and by the quality of the surrounding tissue.
- Excision and primary anastomosis: the short diseased segment is cut out and the healthy ends joined — excellent results for short bulbar strictures
- Buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty: a patch of cheek lining widens the urethra — used for longer strictures; the mouth heals in about two weeks
- Staged repair: for very complex or lichen sclerosus disease, done in two operations a few months apart
What the recovery looks like
Two to three days in hospital, and a catheter for roughly two to three weeks. A pericatheter study or urethrogram confirms healing before the catheter is removed. You will be asked to avoid cycling and heavy lifting for about six weeks. If a cheek graft was used, expect soreness and a soft diet for a few days.
Results
Long-term success rates for urethroplasty are high and substantially better than repeated endoscopic treatment. Flow is checked with uroflowmetry at intervals afterwards, because a falling flow rate detects a recurrence long before symptoms return.
Urethroplasty — common questions
Is urethroplasty a major operation?
It is a specialised reconstructive procedure requiring anaesthesia and a short stay, but it is not abdominal surgery and recovery is generally comfortable.
Why take a graft from the mouth?
Buccal mucosa is thin, resilient, accustomed to a wet environment and heals quickly at the donor site — properties that make it the preferred graft for the urethra.
How long does the catheter stay?
Usually two to three weeks, confirmed by an X-ray study showing the repair has healed before it is removed.
Does urethroplasty affect erections?
A temporary change in sensation or erection quality can occur and usually settles within a few months. Permanent effects are uncommon.
Reviewed by Dr. Kinjal Banerjee, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DNB (Urology) — Urologist, Renal Transplant & Robotic Surgeon, Faridabad. This page explains urethroplasty in general terms; your own treatment plan depends on your reports and examination.