Name of the Condition
- Postprocedural urethral stricture, male, unspecified
Summary
Postprocedural urethral stricture in males is a narrowing of the urethra that occurs as a complication following a medical procedure. This narrowing can obstruct urinary flow and may cause associated symptoms.
Causes
This condition typically develops after procedures involving the urethra or pelvic region, such as catheterization, surgical interventions, or trauma from medical instruments. It results from scarring or tissue changes during healing.
Risk Factors
- Undergoing urological surgeries, repeated catheter use, or prior urethral trauma.
- Procedures involving the prostate, bladder, or urethra.
Symptoms
- Weak or interrupted urine stream.
- Difficulty initiating or completing urination.
- Increased frequency or urgency of urination.
- Pain during urination or ejaculation.
- Urinary tract infections.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves a physical examination, patient history, and imaging studies such as retrograde urethrogram or cystoscopy to visualize the urethra. Uroflowmetry may assess urine flow rates.
Treatment Options
- Urethral dilation or urethrotomy to widen the narrowed area.
- Open surgical reconstruction (urethroplasty) for complex cases.
- Catheterization or stenting to maintain patency during healing.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good, though strictures may recur. Regular follow-up is important to monitor for recurrence or complications.
Complications
- Recurrent strictures requiring repeated interventions.
- Urinary retention or incontinence.
- Chronic urinary tract infections.
- Kidney damage from prolonged obstruction.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain good hydration to support urinary health.
- Avoid unnecessary urethral instrumentation when possible.
- Follow post-procedure care instructions to minimize scarring.
- Promptly address urinary symptoms to prevent progression.
When to Seek Professional Help
Seek medical attention if you experience persistent urinary symptoms, pain, or signs of infection after a procedure. Immediate care is needed for severe obstruction or inability to urinate.
Tips for Medical Coders
Document the postprocedural nature of the stricture and specify it is in a male patient. Ensure the unspecified location is appropriate when the exact urethral segment is not documented. Code N99.114 is used when the stricture is postprocedural, male, and the location is not further specified.