Endoscopic evaluation and treatment of anastomotic strictures after radical retropubic prostatectomy.

PURPOSE

We describe endoscopic findings and treatment outcome in 17 men who presented with a symptomatic anastomotic stricture after radical prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Endoscopic evaluation revealed an immature stricture in 6 men, which was treated by initial dilation and subsequent cold-knife urethrotomy. The 11 men with a mature anastomotic stricture were treated by initial cold-knife urethrotomy (10) or dilation followed by urethrotomy (1).

RESULTS

There were no long-term complications from treatment, which was successful in 15 of the 17 men (88%).

CONCLUSIONS

Initial dilation with subsequent urethrotomy for immature or initial urethrotomy for mature anastomotic strictures is a safe and effective treatment plan.