Cystoscopy with urethral dilation

The clinician gradually stretches the narrowing with dilators or another device, then may pass a cystoscope to inspect the urethra and bladder. The anesthesia used depends on the narrowing and the planned setting.

Scar tissue can reduce the width of the urethra, causing a weak stream, straining, incomplete emptying or difficulty placing an instrument. Dilation opens the narrowed segment but does not remove the tendency of scar tissue to tighten again.

A catheter may remain after the procedure to support drainage and healing. Your clinician should explain the cause and location of the narrowing, the intended benefit, whether recurrence is a concern, and what alternatives could be considered if symptoms return.

Before treatment, report fever, burning urine, previous urethral procedures, medicine allergies and every medicine or supplement you take. Use the service's instructions for fasting and blood-thinning medicines, since preparation changes with the anesthesia plan.

If you leave with a catheter, keep the bag below bladder level, avoid pulling the tubing and follow the demonstrated hygiene routine. Take prescribed medicines as directed, observe the urine flow, and clarify limits on driving, lifting, sexual activity and work during healing.

Promptly report fever, chills, worsening urethral or pelvic pain, foul-smelling urine, increasing bleeding or a stream that becomes progressively weaker. Seek urgent help if you cannot pass urine or, with a catheter, urine stops collecting despite the tubing being unkinked; severe pain or heavy bleeding with clots also needs urgent assessment.

Request a clear explanation of where the narrowing lies, how it was identified and how the team will judge whether dilation helped. Ask how catheter removal will be managed, what follow-up checks urine flow, and which options remain if the narrowing returns.