Laser OIU

Doctors Info on Laser OIU

Dr Philip is a highly experienced urologist in Kollam, specializing in the treatment of urethral stricture using the Laser OIU procedure. This procedure is particularly suitable for:

  • Short urethral stricture (less than 10 mm in length)
  • Urethral stricture caused by trauma
  • Urethral stricture resulting from prior surgery
  • Idiopathic stricture (without any known cause)

Initial Examination

  • During your consultation visit, you will undergo a comprehensive examination and receive detailed explanations regarding the procedure. The following tests will be conducted:
    • Urinalysis and Urine Culture
    • Blood Tests for preoperative assessment
    • Uroflowmetry
    • Micturating Cystourethrogram (MCU) X-ray
    • Retrograde Urethrogram (RGU) X-ray
    • A Urethroscopy is scheduled to precisely determine the location and extent of the narrowed segment.

Advantages of Laser OIU?

  • Reduced blood loss
  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Same-day discharge without a catheter
  • High success rates

Side effects of Laser OIU

  • Hemorrhage – In rare instances, small blood clots may form and require irrigation through the catheter.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – This may manifest as a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, and an intense urge to urinate. Typically, a few days of antibiotic treatment can resolve this issue.
  • Incontinence – While uncommon, incontinence may occur.
  • Stricture Recurrence – In some cases, strictures may recur after several years, necessitating additional surgical intervention.

Is Laser OIU Safe

Yes, but it’s important to note that redo procedures and those for longer strictures tend to have a higher incidence of failure.

When Laser OIU is needed?

Laser OIU is a widely recognized and highly effective treatment for urethral stricture, which can lead to obstructive urination patterns., particularly poor urine flow that does not improve with straining.

  • Obstructive symptoms may include:
    • Straining (the need to push to initiate urination)
    • Hesitancy (delayed onset of urination after the urge to urinate)
    • Slow or diminished force of the urine stream
    • A thin or forked (split or spray-like) stream
    • Intermittence (urine stream that starts and stops)
    • Sensation of incomplete emptying
  • Irritative symptoms may include:
    • Increased frequency of urination
    • Urgency to urinate
    • Nocturia (getting up at night to urinate)to urinate).

What would disqualify me from Laser OIU Surgery?

  • Urinary tract infection.
  • Any medical condition, such as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease, that poses a risk during anaesthesia.