Urethroplasty (Buccal Mucosa)

1. What is Buccal Mucosa Urethroplasty?
Buccal mucosa urethroplasty is a reconstructive surgery used to repair a narrowed or scarred urethra. Tissue from the inner lining of the cheek is used as a graft to widen and reconstruct the affected section of the urethra.

2. When is Urethroplasty recommended?
It may be recommended for significant, long, recurrent, or complex urethral strictures, particularly when less invasive treatments such as urethral dilation or direct vision internal urethrotomy have failed or are unlikely to provide a durable result.

3. Why is Buccal Mucosa used?
The inner cheek provides tissue that is well suited for urethral reconstruction because it is durable, flexible, relatively resistant to moisture, and has characteristics that allow it to integrate well as a urethral graft.

4. How is the procedure performed?
The scarred portion of the urethra is accessed and reconstructed according to the stricture's location and characteristics. A section of buccal mucosa is harvested from the inside of the cheek and used to widen the narrowed urethra. The exact technique depends on the anatomy of the stricture.

5. What tests are required before surgery?
Evaluation may include uroflowmetry, urine testing and culture, ultrasound, retrograde urethrography, voiding cystourethrography, and sometimes cystoscopy. These investigations help determine the location, length, and severity of the stricture.

6. How long does Buccal Mucosa Urethroplasty take?
The operation commonly takes around 2–4 hours, depending on the length and complexity of the stricture. A urinary catheter is generally kept in place temporarily while the reconstructed urethra heals.

7. What are the benefits of Urethroplasty?
Urethroplasty can significantly improve urinary flow, reduce obstruction and provide a more durable result than repeated dilation or internal urethrotomy for appropriately selected strictures.

8. What are the risks and recovery?
Potential complications include infection, bleeding, recurrent stricture, urinary leakage, changes in urinary flow, and rarely erectile or other urinary complications. Temporary cheek discomfort, tightness, numbness, or difficulty opening the mouth can occur after graft harvesting.

9. Why consider India for Buccal Mucosa Urethroplasty?
India has experienced reconstructive urologists and specialized urethral-stricture centres offering advanced urethroplasty techniques, comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, and postoperative care at comparatively competitive treatment costs.

10. How can Medavelle help?
Medavelle can coordinate medical-record and imaging review, identify an appropriate reconstructive urologist and hospital, obtain an indicative treatment plan and quotation, and assist with hospital and travel coordination for international patients.