Acquired urethral diverticula in the male.

Male urethral diverticula are rare. In our review of the literature between 1928 and 1980 we found only about 250 cases. Acquired diverticula are only slightly more frequent than congenital ones. The 13 cases we present (1965-1980) are all acquired. In 50% of these cases periurethral suppuration was the promoting etiology. Urinary tract infection complicated 12 cases. Retrograde urethrography was diagnostic in all instances. We recommend urethral diverticulectomy as the treatment of choice whenever possible. We stress prophylaxis via gentle manipulation of the urethra and proper drainage of periurethral suppuration.