Optical Internal Ureterostomy (OIU)
What is Optical Internal Urethrotomy (OIU)?
Optical Internal Urethrotomy (OIU) is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure used to treat urethral stricture, a condition where narrowing of the urethra obstructs the normal flow of urine.
Using a specialized endoscope, the urologist makes a precise internal incision in the narrowed segment of the urethra to restore normal urine flow—without any external cuts or stitches.
What is Urethral Stricture?
Urethral stricture is a scar-related narrowing of the urethra that can lead to urinary obstruction.
Common Causes:
- Previous catheterization or instrumentation
- Infection or inflammation
- Trauma to the pelvis or perineum
- Previous urethral surgery
- Congenital narrowing
Symptoms of Urethral Stricture
- Weak or thin urinary stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Straining during urination
- Frequent urination
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Urinary tract infections
- Acute urinary retention in severe cases
When is OIU Recommended?
OIU is suitable for:
- Short-segment urethral strictures (usually <1–2 cm)
- First-time stricture cases
- Soft, non-complex strictures
- Patients unfit for open surgery
It is not ideal for long, recurrent, or complex strictures.
Benefits of Optical Internal Urethrotomy
- Minimally invasive
- No external incision
- Short procedure time
- Daycare or short hospital stay
- Faster recovery
- Immediate improvement in urine flow
Pre-Procedure Evaluation
Before OIU, the urologist may recommend:
- Uroflowmetry
- Retrograde urethrogram (RUG)
- Ultrasound or cystoscopy
- Urine tests
- Blood tests and anesthesia fitness
Optical Internal Urethrotomy Procedure – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Anesthesia
- Spinal or general anesthesia is commonly used
Step 2: Endoscopic Access
- A urethrotome (endoscope with cutting blade or laser) is gently passed through the urethra
Step 3: Incision of Stricture
- The stricture is incised under direct vision (usually at the 12 o’clock position)
- This opens the narrowed area
Step 4: Catheter Placement
- A urinary catheter is placed to allow healing and drainage
⏱️ Procedure Time: 20–30 minutes
🏥 Hospital Stay: Same day or 1 day
After the Procedure
- Mild burning during urination initially
- Catheter is usually kept for 3–7 days
- Antibiotics and pain relief are prescribed
- Patients can resume light activities within a few days
Book a Consultation
If you or a loved one needs a kidney transplant, consult Dr. Amit Goel, a trusted Urologist & Kidney Transplant Specialist, to discuss robotic or open transplant options and donor procedures.
📍 C2/902, Parsvnath Exotica, DLF Phase 5, Sector 53, Gurugram, Haryana 122003
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