What is Direct Vision Internal Urethrotomy?

Direct vision internal urethrotomy (DVIU) is a surgery to repair a narrowed section of the urethra (called urethral stricture). The urethra is the tube through which urine passes from the bladder to the outside of the body.

Urethral stricture is due to scarring of the urethra. This scarring may be caused by infection or injury. DVIU cuts through the scar tissue and open the urethra.

Male Urethra © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Urethral stricture, which is more common in men than in women, can result in:

• In men, problems with the prostate (eg, infection, inflammation )

• Infections of the bladder , ureters (carry urine from the kidneys to bladder), or kidneys

• Inability to urinate or empty the bladder completely

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a DVIU, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Abscess or damage to urethra

• Recurrent stricture

• Need for more procedures

• Penis pain

• Erectile dysfunction

• Pain when urinating

• General complications, like:

• Bleeding
• Bad reaction to anesthesia (eg, light-headedness, low blood pressure, wheezing)
• Infection
• Damage or scarring of tissue
• Injury to surrounding structures
• Heart attack or stroke
• Blood clots

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Bleeding disorders or taking medicines that reduce blood clotting

• Obesity

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