A urinary (urethral) stricture is a narrowing of the urethra that restricts urine flow and can interfere with normal bladder emptying. At Urology Austin, our specialists diagnose and treat urethral strictures using individualized, evidence based approaches to restore urinary function and prevent complications.
What Is a Urethral Stricture?
The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. A stricture occurs when scar tissue forms and narrows the urethra, making it harder for urine to pass through.
Strictures are more common in men due to the length of the male urethra, but they can occur in women as well.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of a urinary stricture may develop gradually and can worsen over time. They may include:
- Slow or weak urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Spraying or split urine stream
- Frequent urination or urgency
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Pain or burning during urination
- Urinary tract infections
- In severe cases, inability to urinate (urinary retention)
If left untreated, strictures can lead to bladder damage, recurrent infections, or kidney problems.
Causes of Urinary Stricture
Urethral strictures are most often caused by scar tissue from injury or inflammation, including:
- Prior urologic procedures or catheter use
- Pelvic or perineal trauma
- Previous prostate or urethral surgery
- Infection or inflammation of the urethra
- Radiation therapy to the pelvic area
- Rarely, congenital narrowing present at birth
Our providers focus on identifying the underlying cause to guide treatment and reduce recurrence risk.
How Urinary Strictures Are Diagnosed
At Urology Austin, diagnosis may include:
- Detailed medical history and symptom review
- Physical examination
- Urine flow studies
- Imaging tests or cystoscopy to assess location and severity
- Retrograde urethrogram if needed for surgical planning
Accurate diagnosis is essential to selecting the most effective treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the length, location, and severity of the stricture, as well as prior treatments and overall health.
Non‑Surgical and Minimally Invasive Options
- Urethral dilation: Gradual stretching of the narrowed area
- Direct visual internal urethrotomy (DVIU): Endoscopic incision of scar tissue
These options may provide relief for shorter or first‑time strictures but have a higher chance of recurrence.
Surgical Treatment
- Urethroplasty: Surgical reconstruction of the urethra to remove scar tissue
Urethroplasty offers the highest long‑term success rates, particularly for longer or recurrent strictures. Your provider will discuss whether this is the best option for you.
What to Expect From Care at Urology Austin
- Care from experienced urology specialists
- Personalized treatment recommendations
- Focus on restoring urinary function and quality of life
- Clear guidance on recovery, follow‑up, and long‑term management
Our goal is not just temporary relief, but durable improvement and prevention of repeat problems.
When to Seek Care
You should contact a urology provider if you experience:
- Persistent weak urine stream
- Difficulty emptying your bladder
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Sudden inability to urinate
Early evaluation can prevent complications and expand treatment options.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing symptoms of a urethral stricture, the specialists at Urology Austin are here to help. Schedule a consultation to receive an accurate diagnosis and discuss the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
