Definition
Scar-related narrowing of the tube carrying urine out of the bladder.
Symptoms
Weak or spraying stream, straining, prolonged emptying, infection or retention.
How it may be discovered
May follow instrumentation, injury or inflammation; sometimes no cause is identified.
When to seek care
Consult for a persistently weaker stream. Painful inability to urinate is an emergency.
Investigations and tests
Flow and residual measurement, urine testing, and selected endoscopy or urethrography.
Reaching a diagnosis
Anatomical assessment establishes the site, length and treatment history; low flow alone cannot confirm it.
Treatment options
Selected cases may receive dilation or endoscopic incision; others need urethral reconstruction. Recurrence risk informs the choice.
Explore this topic further
Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.