Name of the Procedure:

Dilation of Female Urethra (Subsequent)

Summary

Dilation of the female urethra is a medical procedure to widen the urethral opening using dilators, usually following an initial dilation. This subsequent procedure might also involve the use of a suppository or medication instillation to aid in the process.

Purpose

This procedure addresses urethral stricture or narrowing of the urethra, which can cause difficulty with urination. The goal is to increase the urethral diameter to alleviate symptoms such as pain, frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and urinary retention.

Indications

• Difficulty urinating or urinary retention
• Recurrent UTIs
• Pain during urination
• Diagnosis of urethral stricture

Preparation

• Follow specific instructions from your healthcare provider, which may include fasting or adjusting certain medications.
• Ensure any diagnostic tests like urinalysis or imaging required by your physician are completed.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will lie on an examination table, and the genital area will be cleaned.
2. Local anesthesia or sedation may be administered to minimize discomfort.
3. A lubricated dilator will be carefully inserted into the urethra to gradually widen the urethral opening.
4. Depending on the situation, a medication suppository or instillation may be administered to aid in dilation or reduce infection risk.

Duration

Typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, urology office, or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Urologist
• Nurses
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Discomfort or pain during the procedure
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Temporary urinary incontinence
• Rarely, damage to the urethra

Benefits

• Relief from symptoms associated with urethral stricture.
• Improved urinary flow.
• Reduced frequency of urinary tract infections.

Recovery

• Patients may experience slight discomfort post-procedure.
• Instructions for pain management, if necessary, will be provided.
• Short recovery time, usually within a few days.
• Follow-up appointments may be required to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Surgical intervention like urethroplasty.
• Regular self-catheterization.
• Pros: Surgery may offer a more permanent solution, but carries higher risks and longer recovery.
• Cons: Self-catheterization can be less invasive but may be inconvenient for long-term management.

Patient Experience

Patients might feel slight pressure and discomfort during the procedure, which is typically well-managed with anesthesia. Post-procedure, mild discomfort or burning sensation during urination is common but usually resolves quickly.