Bladder neck contracture/posterior urethral stenosis is a condition where the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) becomes narrowed or blocked at its insertion into the bladder, usually due to scar tissue or other abnormalities. This can also cause problems with urination, including difficulty starting and stopping urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, and urinary incontinence.
Treatment for both bladder neck contracture and posterior urethral stenosis may involve surgery to widen or repair the affected area. One option for surgery is robotic surgery, which is a type of minimally invasive surgery performed using a computer-assisted system. This type of surgery can be less risky and have a shorter recovery time compared to open traditional surgery.
Another option for treatment is urethroplasty, which is a surgical procedure to repair or reconstruct the urethra. This may be necessary if there is significant damage or scarring in the urethra.
In some cases, dilation (widening) of the affected area may be recommended as a treatment option. This can be done using special instruments or by inserting medicine-encoated balloons into the affected area and slowly inflating them.
There is a risk of incontinence (loss of control over urination) with any surgery involving the bladder or urethra. In some cases, incontinence may be temporary and resolve on its own over time. In other cases, treatment with an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) or sling may be necessary. An AUS is a device that is inserted into the body and helps to control the flow of urine by closing and opening the urethra. It can be adjusted or turned on and off as needed, allowing for more control over urination. A sling is a mesh placed over the urethra and tightened to provide support for the urethra.
It is important to discuss all treatment options and potential risks with a healthcare provider before making a decision about treatment for bladder neck contracture or posterior urethral stenosis. It is also important to follow all post-surgery instructions and attend follow-up appointments as recommended by a healthcare provider to ensure the best possible outcome.