N35.111 Postinfective urethral stricture, not elsewhere classified, male, meatal

Name of the Condition

• Postinfective urethral stricture, not elsewhere classified, male, meatal

Summary

Postinfective urethral stricture, meatal, in males is a narrowing of the urethral opening (meatus) resulting from scarring after a prior infection. This narrowing can obstruct urine flow and cause urinary symptoms.

Causes

The condition develops due to scarring of the urethral meatus following an infection, such as urethritis or a sexually transmitted infection. Inflammation from the infection leads to fibrosis and subsequent stricture formation.

Risk Factors

• History of urethral infections (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia)
• Recurrent or untreated urethritis
• Prolonged catheterization or instrumentation of the urethra
• Poor hygiene or unprotected sexual activity

Symptoms

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak or reduced urine stream
• Spraying or deviation of the urine stream
• Painful urination or burning sensation
• Incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a physical examination to assess the meatus and urine flow. Uroflowmetry may measure flow rate, while cystoscopy or urethroscopy can visualize the stricture. Imaging, such as a retrograde urethrogram, may be used to evaluate the extent of narrowing.

Treatment Options

• Meatal dilation: Temporary widening of the meatus using instruments.
• Meatotomy: Surgical incision to enlarge the meatus.
• Urethral reconstruction: Surgical repair for severe or recurrent strictures.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With treatment, symptoms often improve, but strictures may recur. Regular follow-up may be needed to monitor for recurrence or complications. Long-term outcomes depend on the severity of the stricture and adherence to treatment.

Complications

• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Urinary retention or incomplete emptying
• Kidney damage from prolonged obstruction
• Sexual dysfunction due to pain or flow issues

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Practice safe sex to reduce infection risk.
• Seek prompt treatment for urethral infections.
• Avoid unnecessary urethral instrumentation.
• Maintain good genital hygiene.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience difficulty urinating, pain, or changes in urine flow. Seek immediate care for signs of urinary retention or severe pain.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the location (meatal) and infectious etiology clearly. Ensure the diagnosis specifies "male" and "not elsewhere classified" to align with the code. Include details of prior infections or treatments if available for clinical context.