N35.114 Postinfective anterior urethral stricture, not elsewhere classified, male

Name of the Condition

• Postinfective anterior urethral stricture, not elsewhere classified, male

Summary

Postinfective anterior urethral stricture, not elsewhere classified, male, is a condition where the anterior portion of the male urethra narrows due to scarring from a prior infection. This narrowing can obstruct urine flow and cause urinary symptoms.

Causes

The condition develops from scarring of the anterior urethra following an infection, such as a sexually transmitted infection or other bacterial urethritis. Inflammation from the infection leads to tissue damage and subsequent stricture formation.

Risk Factors

• History of urethral infections
• Recurrent or untreated sexually transmitted infections
• Prolonged catheterization or instrumentation
• Inflammatory conditions affecting the urethra

Symptoms

• Difficulty initiating urination
• Weak or intermittent urine stream
• Increased frequency or urgency of urination
• Painful urination or discomfort
• Urinary retention or incomplete bladder emptying

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and may include urethroscopy to visualize the stricture, uroflowmetry to assess urine flow, or imaging studies like retrograde urethrogram to evaluate the narrowing.

Treatment Options

• Dilation: Gradual widening of the stricture using instruments.
• Urethrotomy: Endoscopic procedure to cut the stricture.
• Urethroplasty: Surgical reconstruction of the urethra.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Prognosis depends on the severity and location of the stricture. Treatment may relieve symptoms, but strictures can recur. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to monitor for recurrence or complications.

Complications

• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Urinary retention
• Kidney damage from prolonged obstruction
• Stricture recurrence after treatment

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Practice safe sex to reduce infection risk.
• Seek prompt treatment for urethral infections.
• Avoid unnecessary urethral instrumentation when possible.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if you experience persistent urinary symptoms, difficulty urinating, or signs of infection, such as fever or pain.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the location (anterior urethra) and confirm the stricture is postinfective and not classified elsewhere. Ensure clinical documentation supports the diagnosis and specifies the male patient.