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Posted by Gary on June 24, 1999 at 11:27:22 I recently had this procedure performed to correct a urethral stricture. I have read here before that doctors will often have patients do self catheterization to prevent recurrence. My doctor has not told me about this. I have had this procedure three weeks ago and am due to go back for a follow up visit in about a week. My question is why would he not make this option available to me? and can self catheterization permanently prevent a recurrence.
Posted by HFHS M.D.-AK on June 25, 1999 at 12:09:19Dear Gary,
I think performing periodic self catheterization is important to maintain the lumen of the urethra after a internal urethrotomy. You could certainly ask your urologist about his or her thoughts. The periodic dilation of the urethral lining prevents scars from forming by breaking up granulation tissue developing in the lumen and prolongs the durability of the operation.. It allows the healing to occur at the periphery where it is supposed to. I don’t think that your doctor is purposely withholding this information from you but he may also feel that in your particular cases catheterization is not necessary.
To answer your last question, unfortunately even daily cathererization may not prevent all strictures from reoccurring. However, you would know that you had a problem much sooner, before you went into retention.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568). Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
*keyword:Urethral stricture
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