ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the short ferm effect of transurethral urethrotomy with the contact Nd:YNG laser for urethral stricture and obliteration. Methods 26 patients with urethral stricture or obliteration were treated with transurethral urehrotomy from August 1993 to October 1999.All patients underwent transurethral urethrotomy with the contact Nd:YNG laser delivered with the 600?m bare fiber at 30 to 50W.The urethrotomy was guided only by a metal sound introduced through the suprapubic tract. Results Satisfactory voiding was achieved after catheter removal in all patients.26 patients were followed up for 6～24 months.Normal micturation was observed in 24 patients(92.3%).Recurrent stricture occurred in 2 patients (7.7%).Of the 2 patients one needed periodical urethral dilatation and the other required repeat internal urethrotomy.The only complication was epididymitis in 2 patients.Urethroscopy was performed in 18 patients 4～12 weeks after catheter removal.Urethrotomy revealed a widely patent uretha with complete epithelialization at the site of the previous urethrotomy. Conclusions Transurethral urethrotomy with the contact Nd:YNG laser is a safe and effective treatment for urethral stricture and obliteration.The rate of stricture recurrence is relatively low.Complications not frequeutly seen and satisfectory short-term effect can be obtained.