End to end anastomosis

  • Introduction
  • F.A.Q.
  • Results
The surgical technique of “End-to-end anastomosis” is made by transecting the urethra at the level of the stricture site, removing the scar tissue and performing a direct anastomosis between the two urethral edges (figure 1). This surgical technique is one of the fist operations described in the repair of urethral strictures.
In patients with penile urethral strictures, the surgical technique of End-to-end anastomosis is generally suggested in the following cases:

  • patients with urethral strictures, not more than 2 cm in length (figure 2).

In patients with penile urethral strictures, the surgical technique of End-to-end anastomosis may cause a penile chordee.

Figure 1

Figure 2

1. Question: What kind of anesthesia is used for this surgery?
Answer: General anesthesia with oro-tracheal tube.


2. Question: How many hours does the surgery take?
Answer: About 2 hours.


3. Question: Are there any risks concerning erection, fertility and urinary incontinence after the surgery?
Answer: No, there aren’t.


4. Question: How many days of hospital recovery are expected following the surgery?
Answer: In general, from 5 to 7 days.


5. Question: How long will I have to use a catheter after the surgery? Is it painful to use the catheter?
Answer: The catheter must stay in place for three weeks after the surgery. The catheter is well tolerated because of its small diameter.


6. Question: Are there any particular recommendations during convalescence?
Answer: During convalescence, the use antibiotics until the catheter is removed is suggested. Avoiding long car trips, as well as heavy labor and sexual and sports activities are also suggested.


7. Question: When will I be able to resume my working, sexual and sports activities?
Answer: All these activities can be gradually resumed about 30 days after the removal of the catheter.


8. Question: Can I ride a bike or a motorcycle immediately after the surgery?
Answer: It is not recommended to ride bikes, motorcycles or horses after the surgery.


9. Question: What kinds of foods and drinks should be avoided after the surgery?
Answer: Beer and sparkling wines should be avoided, as well as large quantities of chocolate, cocoa, nuts and shellfish.