When to use bougienage
Urethral stricture is a scar narrowing of the urethra, most often occurring after trauma, catheterization, endoscopic interventions and previous urethritis. It manifests itself as a sluggish stream of urine, straining when urinating, a feeling of incomplete emptying, and in severe cases - acute urinary retention. Bougienage involves the sequential introduction of bougies of increasing diameter, which stretch the scar tissue. The method is minimally invasive and is performed under local anesthesia, but it has a significant limitation: the scar shrinks again over time, so the procedure often has to be repeated. For extended and dense strictures, a more radical solution is urethroplasty.
Minimally invasive urology
Modern urology strives to solve problems without large incisions: through the natural urinary tract (endoscopically) or through a puncture of the skin (percutaneous). This shortens the length of hospitalization, reduces the risk of complications and speeds up recovery.
The key condition is accurate preoperative diagnosis: computed tomography or ultrasound determines the location of the problem and allows you to choose the optimal access.
Prevention of infection
The urinary tract is an environment where infection can easily develop, especially in the presence of stones, stents and drains. Therefore, before any intervention, a urine culture is performed, and if a pathogen is identified, a course of antibacterial therapy is administered. Surgery against the background of active inflammation significantly increases the risk of postoperative complications.
After the intervention
In the first days, blood in the urine and frequent urination are possible - these are expected phenomena. Drinking plenty of fluids and following the recommended regimen are required. You should consult a doctor if you have a fever, increased pain, urinary retention, or heavy bleeding.