The Glidewire technique for overcoming urethral obstruction.
OBJECTIVE
Using the hydrophilic Terumo Glidewire we developed a less traumatic, yet effective alternative method to filiforms and followers for cases of urethral obstruction.


METHODS
The initial step and cornerstone of our method is the passage of the Glidewire per urethra in a manner similar to a filiform. After the appropriate intravesical location of the Glidewire is confirmed using a ureteral catheter, it is exchanged for a standard polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) coated guide wire. Urethral dilation and/or catheter placement is then performed.


RESULTS
This technique was successful in 19 of 20 attempts, several of which followed unsuccessful passage of filliform catheters. Urethral obstruction due to strictures, bladder neck contractures and benign prostatic hyperplasia in our group was treated effectively. Furthermore, no complications occurred due to the technique.


CONCLUSIONS
The Glidewire method is safe and effective for treating most cases of urethral obstruction. Therefore, we recommend this technique over standard filiforms and followers when flexible or rigid cystourethroscopy is not immediately available.
Freid
R M
RM
Department of Urology, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, New York, USA.
Smith
A D
AD
D004322:Drainage / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D014524:Urethral Obstruction / Q000628:therapy; D014546:Urinary Catheterization