A urethral stricture happens when scar tissue builds up in the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine out of the body.
A stricture can partly block urine flow, causing pain, infection, and trouble peeing. Causes include trauma to the pelvic area, infections, and prior surgery.
Doctors can treat urethral stricture with surgery.
To make an appointment with the Department of Urology, please contact a location near you.
Aurethral strictureis a buildup of scar tissue in the urethra.
Urethral stricture is almost always an adult male problem. Because men have a longer urethra, they're more prone to scar tissue buildup.
The stricture — or narrowing — can happen anywhere between the bladder and the tip of the penis.
Often, doctors can't find an exact cause for urethral stricture.
Likely causes for scar tissue may include:
Risk factors for urethral stricture include having:
If left untreated, aurethral stricture can lead to chronic UTIs. If your urethra becomes severely blocked, kidney damage can occur.
If you're completely unable to pee, you need to call 911 or go to the ER right away.
There's no sure way to prevent urethral strictures, but there are ways to reduce your chances of getting one.
UPMC's urologic surgeons:
You should see a doctor if you have any of these symptoms of urethral stricture:
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and health history.
They'll give you a physical and may run tests such as:
A urethral stricture is highly treatable.
The UPMC Department of Urology has a team of urologic surgeons with expert training. They can tell you which treatment option is best for your case.
We most often treat urethral stricture with surgery. Your options will depend on the stricture's type, location, and length.
Your doctor may use one of the following procedures to treat your urethral stricture:
Your recovery time will vary based on what type of procedure you had.
In some cases, the stricture may come back, and you'll need a repeat treatment.