Transurethral reconstruction of fossa navicularis strictures with dorsal inlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty.

PURPOSE: To describe a single stage, glans-sparing urethroplasty technique for fossa navicularis strictures using a transurethral dorsal inlay buccal mucosa graft.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained urethral stricture database to identify all fossa navicularis strictures reconstructed with a single stage, transurethral dorsal inlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty (5/2015-6/2020). Primary outcomes were anatomic success, defined as the ability to pass a 17 Fr flexible cystoscope, and functional success, defined as the lack of obstructive voiding symptoms and no need for further procedures. Secondary outcomes were postoperative complications and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients were included. Mean age was 63.1 years (43.9-75.6) and mean stricture length was 1.7 cm (1.4-2.0). Stricture etiology included internal trauma (62.5%), idiopathic (25.0%), and lichen sclerosus (12.5%). Prior endoscopic procedures were done in 75% of patients. Over a median follow-up of 28.8 months (IQR 17.6-38.0), anatomic success was 15/16 (93.8%) and functional success was 16/16 (100%). The single anatomic recurrence was at 4.2 months postoperatively. No additional procedures were required. Urinary tract infection occurred in 25% (4/16). There were no instances of de novo erectile dysfunction, chordee, or wound infection. All patients would recommend urethroplasty to others and all patients were either very satisfied (83.3%) or satisfied (16.7%) with the procedure. Penile sensitivity was unchanged in 83.3%, increased in 8.3% and decreased in 8.3%.

CONCLUSION

Transurethral dorsal inlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty is a viable option for reconstruction of fossa navicularis strictures that avoids splitting the glans and results in excellent cosmesis.