Meatotomy

Meatotomy is a surgical procedure involving the partial division or incision of the meatus, which is the external opening of the urethra. This delicate procedure is typically performed to widen or enlarge the urinary meatus, primarily to address conditions like meatal stenosis or urethral strictures. By carefully making an incision at the tip of the urethra, this technique aims to alleviate discomfort during urination caused by narrowing or constriction of the meatus. The procedure is often carried out under local anesthesia and is considered relatively straightforward, usually taking a short amount of time to complete. It can be performed in both pediatric and adult patients, although it's more commonly associated with pediatric cases to address congenital abnormalities or complications arising from circumcision. While a meatotomy is generally safe, complications such as bleeding, infection, or recurrence of the narrowing might occur. Patients undergoing this procedure typically require post-operative care and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure proper urinary function. Medical professionals carefully evaluate the necessity of a meatotomy, considering its potential benefits and risks before recommending it as a treatment option for specific urological conditions affecting the meatus.