Optical Urethrotomy in London
Optical urethrotomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a urethral stricture, a narrowing in the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. It opens the narrowed area from within, without an external incision, helping to improve urine flow.
It can be an appropriate option for some men with a first, short stricture. However, strictures can return, so it is important to understand how this procedure compares with more durable treatment options.
What is optical urethrotomy?
Optical urethrotomy, sometimes called direct vision internal urethrotomy, is a procedure for treating a urethral stricture. A urethral stricture occurs when scar tissue narrows the urethra, restricting the flow of urine.
During the procedure, a fine telescope is passed through the urethra to the narrowed area. Using a small blade or laser, the surgeon makes a precise cut through the scar tissue while viewing it directly. This opens the stricture and creates a wider passage for urine.
As treatment is carried out through the urethra, there is no external incision. Optical urethrotomy is usually performed under anaesthetic and may be carried out as a day-case procedure. A catheter may be used for a short period afterwards to support healing.
Optical urethrotomy can provide good initial symptom relief for selected strictures. However, it does not remove the tendency for scar tissue to form, meaning that the narrowing can return. It is often most suitable for a first, short stricture. If a stricture returns, your consultant may discuss urethroplasty, which is reconstructive surgery designed to provide a more durable result.
How it works
Optical urethrotomy relieves a urethral stricture in three steps.
Direct vision
A fine telescope allows your consultant to locate and assess the narrowing before treatment.
Precise internal cut
A small blade or laser is used to cut through scar tissue and widen the narrowed section of urethra.
Recurrence remains possible
The procedure opens the stricture but does not remove the underlying tendency to form scar tissue. This means strictures can recur, particularly after repeated procedures.
Who optical urethrotomy may suit
Optical urethrotomy may be considered for men who:
- Have a first, short urethral stricture
- Have symptoms such as a weak stream, straining or incomplete bladder emptying
- Need a treatment option beyond simple urethral dilatation
- Have been assessed as suitable for a minimally invasive procedure
- Understand that the stricture may return
What to expect
- Assessment
Your consultant will confirm the presence, position and length of the stricture, then discuss whether optical urethrotomy is appropriate. Assessment may include a flow rate test, flexible urethroscopy and imaging. - The procedure
Optical urethrotomy is carried out under anaesthetic. A telescope is passed through the urethra and the scar tissue is carefully cut under direct vision. There are no external incisions. - Recovery and follow-up
A catheter may be needed for a short period after treatment. Your consultant will explain your recovery plan and arrange follow-up to review urine flow and discuss any ongoing symptoms.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for optical urethrotomy in London?
No external incision
Optical urethrotomy is performed through the urethra, so there are no cuts on the outside of the body.
A minimally invasive treatment option
It can be an appropriate procedure for selected short strictures and may be carried out as a day case.
Suitable for some first strictures
Optical urethrotomy may be considered when assessment shows that a first, short stricture could respond to internal treatment.
Honest advice about recurrence
Your consultant will explain the likelihood of the stricture returning and when urethroplasty may be a more suitable long-term option.
Frequently asked questions
How is optical urethrotomy different from urethral dilatation?
Urethral dilatation stretches the narrowed part of the urethra. Optical urethrotomy uses a small blade or laser to cut through scar tissue under direct vision. Both can improve urine flow, but strictures can return after either treatment.
Will the urethral stricture return?
It can. Optical urethrotomy treats the narrowing but does not remove the underlying tendency for scar tissue to form. Repeated procedures are less likely to provide lasting relief, which is why reconstructive surgery may be discussed for recurrent strictures.
Is optical urethrotomy painful?
The procedure is performed under anaesthetic, so you will not feel it during treatment. You may experience temporary discomfort or urinary symptoms during recovery, and a catheter may be needed briefly. Your consultant will explain what to expect.
When should I consider urethroplasty instead?
Urethroplasty may be more appropriate if a stricture returns after dilatation or optical urethrotomy, or if it is longer or more complex. Your consultant will explain whether reconstruction may offer a more durable option in your circumstances.
Discuss the right procedure for your urethral stricture
Optical urethrotomy can be an appropriate treatment for selected strictures. Our consultant urologists can assess your symptoms, explain the options and give clear advice about long-term durability.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
