Urethrectomy

Urethrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of all or part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This procedure is typically performed to treat cancer of the urethra or severe urethral stricture, a condition that causes narrowing of the urethra.

Indications

Urethrectomy is most commonly performed to treat urethral cancer, a rare type of cancer that affects both men and women. It can also be performed to treat severe urethral stricture, a condition that causes narrowing of the urethra and can lead to difficulty urinating, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage.

Procedure

The procedure can be performed as a partial urethrectomy, where only a portion of the urethra is removed, or a total urethrectomy, where the entire urethra is removed. The type of urethrectomy performed depends on the extent and location of the disease.

In men, a total urethrectomy often involves the removal of the prostate gland and bladder as well. In women, a total urethrectomy may involve the removal of the bladder and some surrounding structures, such as the vagina or uterus.

Following a total urethrectomy, a new way for urine to exit the body must be created. This is typically done through a procedure called a urostomy, where a small opening (stoma) is made in the abdomen and the ureters are rerouted to this opening.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, urethrectomy carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications from anesthesia. Specific to this procedure, there may be changes in sexual function and fertility, as well as the need for a permanent urostomy.

Recovery

Recovery from a urethrectomy can take several weeks. Patients may need to learn to care for a urostomy and may require physical therapy to regain bladder control. Follow-up care is important to monitor for any signs of recurrence of the disease.

See Also

• Urethra
• Urethral stricture
• Urethral cancer
• Urostomy