Urethral Widening
Also known as: urethral dilation
Urethral widening is a standard treatment for urethral stricture, a condition where the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) becomes too narrow. This simple procedure gently stretches the urethra to improve the flow of urine.
Why you might need urethral widening
A narrowing of the urethra, medically known as a stricture or stenosis, can occur for several reasons. In many cases, it results from the buildup of scar tissue caused by an injury, previous surgery or the use of a catheter. Radiation treatment to the pelvic area or chronic inflammation can also lead to this condition. Some people are born with a naturally narrow urethra due to congenital abnormalities. Other causes include repeated urinary tract infections and certain skin conditions that affect the genital area.
When the urethra is too narrow, it may cause symptoms such as a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, painful urination, frequent urges to go, or a sensation that the bladder hasn’t completely emptied. In such cases, urethral dilation can relieve these symptoms by carefully widening the narrowed section, making it easier for urine to flow.
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Ways to payBefore the procedure
Before undergoing urethral dilation, you’ll have a consultation with a urologist. To diagnose a urethral stricture, your doctor will first discuss your medical history and symptoms with you. A physical examination is typically performed to identify any visible or physical abnormalities. To get a closer look at the inside of your urethra, your doctor may perform a cystoscopy, a procedure where a small, flexible camera is gently inserted into the urethra. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, may also be used to assess the extent and severity of the narrowing. Sometimes, a urine test is performed to check for an infection or inflammation that may be contributing to your symptoms. Your doctor will also review any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter supplements, to ensure the procedure can be performed safely and without complications. The decision to proceed with dilation is based on your individual health needs, symptoms, and the underlying cause of the stricture.
During the procedure
Urethral dilation is typically performed under general anaesthesia, which means you’ll be asleep during the procedure and won’t feel any pain. Depending on your specific case, your doctor may use different techniques. These can include the use of special instruments called dilators that gradually stretch the narrowed area or the use of a small balloon that is inserted and gently inflated to widen the urethra. In some cases, a minor surgical cut is made in the scar tissue during a procedure known as a urethrotomy, which helps open up the narrowing and restore better urine flow. For men, the instruments are inserted through the opening at the tip of the penis, while for women, the procedure is done through the shorter female urethra.
After the procedure
After the procedure is complete, you will be taken to a recovery area, where the medical team will monitor you until you are fully awake and stable. In some cases, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter may be inserted into the bladder to allow urine to drain while the urethra heals. Discomfort is usually mild and should begin to improve after a few days.
Before you leave the hospital, your healthcare team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for yourself during your recovery. This may include guidance on managing the catheter, when to resume normal activities, how to take any prescribed medications, and what signs of infection or complications to watch for. You’ll also be told when to return for a follow-up appointment and when the catheter, if used, can be safely removed. Following these instructions closely can help ensure a smooth recovery and improve the chances of a successful outcome.
Risks and Complications
Like any medical procedure, urethral dilation carries some potential risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and the possibility of new scar tissue forming, which could cause the stricture to come back. Some patients experience discomfort or pain during the healing process. In rare cases, the urethra can be injured during the procedure. Using a catheter after the procedure helps keep the urethra open and allows it to heal correctly, but it can also cause some temporary discomfort. It’s essential to discuss all potential risks and benefits with your doctor so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial Consultation
You’ll first meet with a urologist to discuss symptoms such as a weak urine stream, difficulty urinating, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. The doctor may perform a physical examination and order tests, such as a cystoscopy or ultrasound, to check for urethral narrowing (stricture). Your medical history, including any previous surgeries or catheter use, will also be reviewed.
Pre-Procedure Preparations
Before the procedure, you may need to fast for several hours and discontinue taking certain medications, especially blood thinners. Be sure to tell your doctor about any allergies, current medications, or other medical conditions. Most patients will need someone to drive them home after the procedure.
Day of Procedure
Urethral dilation is typically done under general anaesthesia. During the procedure, the doctor gently stretches the narrowed part of your urethra using dilators or a small inflatable balloon. In some cases, a minor incision may be made to help open the narrowed area (urethrotomy). The procedure usually takes less than an hour and is done through the natural opening of the urethra.
Immediately After Procedure
After the procedure, you’ll be monitored in a recovery area as the anaesthesia wears off. A temporary catheter may be placed to help urine drain while the urethra heals. It’s normal to experience some discomfort, mild burning, or blood in the urine for a day or two.
Early Recovery at Home
Rest at home for the first 1-2 days. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the bladder and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. The catheter will be removed according to your doctor’s instructions. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until your healthcare provider says it’s safe.
Follow-Up Visit
You’ll return to your urologist within 1-2 weeks after the procedure. At this appointment, your doctor will assess your healing progress and review the improvement in your urinary symptoms. If needed, further imaging or a repeat cystoscopy may be done.
Long-Term Care and Monitoring
Most patients recover quickly and return to normal activities within a few days to a week. However, because urethral strictures can recur over time, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring or additional treatments if symptoms return. In some cases, long-term management options, such as clean intermittent self-catheterisation, may be discussed to help prevent recurrence.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
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FAQs
The urethra may be stretched to treat conditions such as urethral stricture or urethral stenosis, where the urethra becomes narrowed due to scar tissue, inflammation, injury, or other causes. Stretching the urethra, also known as urethral dilation, helps to widen the narrowed area, allowing urine to flow more freely and relieving symptoms like difficulty urinating, pain, or discomfort.
Yes, the urethra can be widened through a medical procedure called urethral dilation or urethral widening. This minimally invasive procedure involves using specialised instruments, such as dilators or inflatable balloons, to gently stretch the narrowed section of the urethra. In some cases, a surgical incision called a urethrotomy may be performed to open the stricture.
The procedure for widening the urethra typically involves a urologist inserting a series of progressively larger dilators or an inflatable balloon catheter into the urethra to stretch the narrowed area carefully. This procedure is generally performed under general anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. In some cases, a urethrotomy may be performed, where a small incision is made to open the stricture. After the procedure, a catheter may be temporarily placed to facilitate urine drainage and maintain the urethra’s patency during the healing process. The method is often performed as an outpatient treatment, allowing patients to return home the same day.