Posterior Urethra

  • Introduction
  • F.A.Q.
  • Results
The male urethra is divided into the anterior and posterior urethra. The anterior urethra is divided into the navicularis, penile and bulbar urethra, and extends from the distal external urethral sphincter to the external urinary meatus. The posterior urethra can be divided into the membranous and prostatic urethra and consists of the segment that extends from the bladder neck to the distal external urethral sphincter. The posterior urethra includes the two urinary sphincters, at the level of the bladder neck (proximal urinary sphincter) and at the level of membranous urethra (distal urinary sphincter).
1. Question: What kind of anesthesia is used for this surgery?
Answer: General anesthesia with oro-tracheal intubation.


2. Question: How many hours does the surgery take?
Answer: About 3 hours.


3. Question: Are there any risks concerning erection, fertility and continence after the surgery?
Answer: If the bladder neck was not injured during the pelvic trauma or emergency treatment, the posterior urethroplasty is safe with regard to urinary continence. The preoperative radiological study provides sure information about the integrity of the bladder neck. Patients with pelvic trauma and urethral rupture may show some degree of erectile dysfunction, due to urethral disruption. Posterior urethroplasty may cause erectile dysfunction. If the bladder neck is not damaged the fertility is not at risk.


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 urethral catheter and suprapubic tube after the surgery?
Answer: The urethral catheter must stay in place for four weeks following surgery, when the first post-operative voiding urethrography is done. The suprapubic tube must stay in place for two months following surgery, when the second post-operative voiding urethrography is done.


6. Question: Are there any particular recommendations during convalescence?
Answer: During convalescence, antibiotic use is suggested until the catheter is removed. It is also suggested that long car trips be avoided, as well as heavy labor, sexual activity and sports.


7. Question: When will I be able to resume work, sexual activity and sports?
Answer: All these activities can be gradually resumed 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.