Optilume (drug-coated balloons)

A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra caused by scar tissue. It restricts urine flow, causing weak stream, straining, spraying, dribbling, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.

No. Scar tissue does not disappear without treatment. The condition usually worsens over time if untreated and may affect bladder and kidney health.

Urethroplasty is reconstructive surgery to remove or repair the scarred urethral segment. For longer strictures, buccal mucosa graft from the inner cheek is often used. It offers the most durable results for many patients.

Yes. Repeated or traumatic catheterisation can irritate the urethral lining and lead to scarring. Proper technique and avoiding unnecessary catheter use reduce this risk.

Diagnosis includes uroflowmetry, ultrasound, retrograde urethrogram (RUG), and sometimes cystoscopy. These tests locate the stricture, measure its length, and guide treatment planning.

Dilation and internal urethrotomy stretch or cut scar tissue but do not remove it completely. Recurrence is common, especially for longer or complex strictures, which is why urethroplasty is often recommended.