N35.811 Other urethral stricture, male, meatal

Name of the Condition

• Other urethral stricture, male, meatal

Summary

Other urethral stricture, male, meatal is a condition involving the narrowing of the urethra at the meatus (the external opening) in males. This narrowing can obstruct urine flow and lead to urinary symptoms. The stricture is classified under this code when it does not fall under other specified subcategories.

Causes

The condition may develop due to scarring or inflammation affecting the meatal region. Potential causes include trauma, infection, inflammation, or previous medical procedures involving the urethral meatus. Scarring from these events can reduce the diameter of the urethral opening over time.

Risk Factors

• History of meatal trauma or injury
• Recurrent infections affecting the urethral meatus
• Prolonged catheterization or instrumentation of the urethra
• Inflammatory conditions involving the meatal area

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 combination of physical examination, uroflowmetry to assess urine flow, and imaging studies such as retrograde urethrogram or cystoscopy to visualize the stricture. These methods help determine the location and severity of the narrowing at the meatus.

Treatment Options

Treatment may include meatal dilation to temporarily widen the stricture, surgical repair (meatoplasty), or other interventions to restore normal urine flow. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause of the stricture.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Prognosis varies based on the severity of the stricture and the effectiveness of treatment. Regular follow-up may be necessary to monitor for recurrence or complications. Early intervention can help prevent long-term urinary issues.

Complications

• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Urinary retention or incomplete bladder emptying
• Kidney damage from prolonged obstruction
• Increased risk of urethral strictures in other locations

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Avoid trauma to the genital area
• Practice good hygiene to reduce infection risk
• Seek prompt treatment for urethral infections
• Follow medical advice after procedures involving the urethra

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if you experience persistent urinary symptoms, difficulty urinating, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, pain). Prompt evaluation can help prevent complications and guide appropriate treatment.

Tips for Medical Coders

When coding for N35.811, ensure documentation specifies the location as the meatus and confirms the stricture is not classified under another subcategory. Include details about the cause (e.g., trauma, infection) and any associated symptoms or treatments to support accurate coding.