On Urethral Dilatation for Urethral Stricture

Lee, Boo Young

Abstract

clinical observation was possible only in 92 of the 159 patients with urethral stricture, who visited the out-patient clinic of Urology in Pusan National University Hospital from the year of 1956 through 1966 In 82 of the 92 cases observed, gradual and periodic urethral dilatations were performed and satisfactory successes were obtained in 25 of them. The results were as follows 1. Urethral dilatations were indicated for the cases in which #18 or less French metal sound gave resistance or difficulties passing the urethra in male and #20 or less French metal sound in female. 2. The urethral dilatation, were performed by inserting #20~22 French metal sound in the urethra first to confirm the area of stricture. If those sounds were not passed, sounds of less size than them or filiform bougies were inserted. When passage of sound of a certain size was successful, sounds of bigger and bigger size approaching #20~24 French were inserted and in severe cases. Foley catheters were indwelled after urethral dilations. 3. Usually, 11-15 times of gradual and periodic urethral dilatations with interval of 3~5 days, totaling about two months should be done. The indwelled catheters were changed every one to two weeks. totaling 6~8 weeks of indwelling and then gradual and periodic urethral dilations were performed after removal of the indwelled catheter. 4. The results of urethral dilatations were successful in 80 per cent, improved 12 per cent and ineffective 8 per cent respectively. 5. Anatomical knowledge on the urethra, and skillful technique and meticulous cares were essential for successful urethral dilatations.