Urethral dilatation in women: urologists' practice patterns in the UK.
BACKGROUND
Review of the literature reveals little evidence to prove the efficacy of urethral dilatation for adult women with various lower urinary tract complaints. We conducted a postal survey to ascertain the actual practice of urethral dilatation among urologists in the UK.


METHODS
A questionnaire was mailed to 428 consultant urologists listed as full members of the British Association of Urological Surgeons. The questionnaire consisted of 8 items about urologists' perception of indications, efficacy, and the need for repeated dilatation and anaesthesia.


RESULTS
The questionnaire response rate was 42%. Although urethral stenosis was the most common indication (97%), the majority of urologists (69%) indicated that fewer than 25% of patients had evidence of stenosis. Overall, 61% of urologists performed dilatation 7 times or more during the last year and 55% believed that less than half of the patients experienced long-term improvement.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite the lack of strong evidence to support the use of urethral dilatation in women, many urologists continue to find it a useful tool in approaching women with lower urinary tract complaints.
Masarani
M
M
Department of Urology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, UK. mmasaarane@yahoo.co.uk
Willis
R G
RG
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003253:Consultants; D004106:Dilatation / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000592:standards*; D011364:Professional Practice / Q000592:standards*; D006113:United Kingdom; D014570:Urologic Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D014572:Urology / Q000592:standards*