LASER OIU for stricture urethra/urethroplasty
Laser Optical Internal Urethrotomy (OIU) is a minimally invasive, endoscopic day-care procedure where a urologist uses a fiber-optic laser to precisely vaporize and cut scar tissue causing a urethral stricture. It is ideal for short strictures (< 1cm) but has a high recurrence rate. Urethroplasty is open reconstructive surgery offering a permanent cure.
Laser OIU Procedure
- How it works: A thin cystoscope is inserted into the urethra. A laser fiber (like a Holmium or Thulium fiber laser) is passed through to vaporize the scar tissue while simultaneously sealing blood vessels.
- Recovery: It typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, usually under spinal or general anesthesia. You may go home the same day but will need a urinary catheter for 3 to 7 days to allow the urethra to heal properly.
- Benefits: Less blood loss, minimal scarring, and quicker initial recovery compared to cold-knife techniques.
