Urethral strictures involve a narrowing of the urinary channel (urethra) that transports urine from the bladder to be expelled from the body. This condition is typically caused by injury, infection, or previous medical procedures that involve the urinary tract. Scar tissue forms within the urethra, reducing its diameter and making it hard for urine to pass. Common signs include a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, frequent urges to urinate or urinary tract infections. In many cases, complete blockage can occur, leading to urinary retention and potential kidney damage. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and urine analysis such as urethroscopy or a retrograde urethrogram.

Treatment options include dilatation, surgical excision of scar tissue, or repair of the affected segment, depending on the structure's length and severity of the condition. In this episode, we discuss urethral strictures — their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options like dilation, endoscopy, and urethroplasty. Discover how early care and lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference.

Join the PACE Hospitals Podcast with Dr. Abhik Debnath, Consultant Laparoscopic Urologist, Endourologist, Andrologist and Kidney Transplant Surgeon at PACE Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad, India, to understand Urethral strictures, what they are, how they affect your health, and what you can do about them.