[Long-term results of endoscopic urethrotomy].
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the long-term results of treatment of urethral strictures by internal endoscopic urethrotomy, a simple, easily reproducible procedure that carries a low morbidity and requires a short period of convalescence.


METHODS
We report our experience of 78 cases submitted to urethrotomy as primary treatment. The results at 19.7 months mean follow-up (range 6 months--5 years) are presented. A maximum of three Sachse procedures were performed if stricture recurred.


RESULTS
The complications were rare. Although the results were poor in only 21% of the patients 6 months postoperatively, 46% had recurrent strictures. Moreover, nearly 50% of these strictures recurred after a second or third urethrotomy.


CONCLUSIONS
The nature of the stricture, determined by spongiofibrosis, is the main prognostic factor. Internal urethrotomy is indicated in urethral strictures without exorbitant spongiofibrosis, otherwise stricture will recur after internal urethrotomy and other treatment modalities will be required.
Rabade Rey
C J
CJ
Servicio de Urología, Hospital Ntra, Sra. de Covadonga, Oviedo, Asturias, España.
Fernández Gómez
J M
JM
Martín Huescar
A
A
Sahagún Argüello
J L
JL
Pérez
J
J
Martínez Gómez
F J
FJ
Martín Benito
J L
JL
Alonso Sainz
F
F
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004724:Endoscopy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013997:Time Factors; D014525:Urethral Stricture / Q000601:surgery*