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Internal Urethrotomy Surgery in India
Internal Urethrotomy is also called as DVIU (Direct Vision Internal Urethrotomy). It is a surgical procedure which treats the narrowed urethra (urethral strictures) which develops from scarring. This procedure is also categorized under Reconstructive Urology surgical procedure as it aims to restore normal function and correct anatomical abnormalities in the urethra by dilating it.
This is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure where a small incision is made in the constricted portion of the urethra to fix the abnormality.
Where can I get the best Internal Urethrotomy procedure done?
Currently, the cost of an Internal Urethrotomy is around US$4,000 and US$8,000. This estimate cost is in US dollars and include the total cost of the procedure along with the cost of the minimum hospital stay required following the surgery.
This estimate is subject to varying depending on the duration of the stay in the hospital as well as the specific of the individual cases.
However, the internationally-acclaimed hospitals and healthcare centers in India offer Internal Urethrotomy procedures at almost 25% to 30% of the conventional cost as compared to US. To know more about how you can get effective and efficient Internal Urethrotomy in India, simply fill out the form below and submit to us. The final cost of the complete process will be made available to you after inspection of the latest medical reports and evaluating the patient.
Who can choose to undergo Internal Urethrotomy?
In case the patient has a narrowed (constricted) urethra, due to any of the several reasons, such as BPH, repetitive urethritis, surgical scarring, trauma and injury to the pelvic region or when a tumor is pressing against the urethra and blocking flow of urine, then the patient can choose to undergo an Internal Urethrotomy on the doctor’s advice.
How to prepare for an Internal Urethrotomy?
Your urologist will perform a complete medical evaluation before advising the surgery. It will include a thorough physical examination, urinalysis, urine culture test and Cystoscopy.
Imaging tests, such as retrograde urethrogram (RUG) along with Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) are also advised. The doctor will advise on being hospitalized a day before the surgery.
It is important to share all medical conditions and current medications with your surgeon. Avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen at least a couple of weeks before the surgery date. Refrain from smoking also. Avoid eating or drinking anything at least 10 hours prior to the Internal Urethrotomy procedure.
How is Internal Urethrotomy procedure performed?
The surgeon will drain the bladder of urine using a supra-pubic catheter to prevent UTI. The surgeon will administer general anesthesia to prevent discomfort or pain during the procedure. The surgeon will use an endoscope (small, flexible surgical tube) which is inserted through the urethra at the tip of the penis. The endoscope has a small surgical knife attached which is then used to make cuts and dilate the constricted part of the urethra.
How is recovery like following an Internal Urethrotomy?
The surgeon will usually advise hospitalization for at least 2 days following the surgery. In this time, painkillers are prescribed to alleviate pain and antibiotics are also administered to prevent infection. The attached catheter will be removed after 3 to 5 days.
Avoid strenuous physical activity and sexual intercourse for at least a couple of weeks following the procedure. The doctor may also schedule a cystoscopy after 4 weeks from the date of surgery to check for improvements and possible complications.
How successful is Internal Urethrotomy?
Internal Urethrotomy is found to be completely successful in around 70% to 80% of all cases. This treatment is ideal for releasing strictures in the urethra which are 2 cm and smaller.
What are the benefits of Internal Urethrotomy?
Internal Urethrotomy is helpful in alleviating pain and discomfort while voiding. It also helps to improve the flow of urine and frequent urination. This procedure also reduces the risk of recurrent UTI (urinary tract infection), prostatitis and orchitis.
Are there any risks associated with Internal Urethrotomy?
These are some rare risks of complications that are seen following an Internal Urethrotomy:
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Infection (UTI or wound infection)
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Recurring urethral stricture
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Perforated urinary bladder or urethra
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Formation of fistula
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Anesthetic allergy
What are the alternatives to Internal Urethrotomy procedure?
These are some alternate treatments apart from Internal Urethrotomy which are helpful in removing urethral strictures:
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Urethral dilation – The aim of this surgery is to stretch the constricted portion of the urethra without additional scarring. This is useful for very small sized strictures.
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Urethral stents – This technique involves using a small surgical tube which is placed inside the urethra in the constricted portion. This clears the passage and keeps the urethra from constricting again. This is one of the permanent implant solutions.
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Urethroplasty – This surgery requires conventional open-type urethral reconstruction. There are mainly 2 methods used in this. The first one is ‘Primary Repair’ which involves complete removal of narrowed urethral portion. The remaining ends of the urethra are then surgically rejoined. The second method involves using tissue grafts from the bladder epithelium to help enlarge the narrowed urethral portion.
