Perineal urethrostomy: surgical and functional evaluation of two techniques.

INTRODUCTION

PU is an option to manage complex and/or recurrent urethral strictures and is necessary after urethrectomy and/or penectomy. PU is generally assumed to be the last option before abandoning the urethral outlet.

METHOD: Between 2001 and 2013, 51 patients underwent PU. Mean age (± standard deviation) was 60 ± 15 years. Only 13 patients (25.5%) did not undergo previous urethral interventions. PU was performed according to the Johanson (n = 35) or Blandy (n = 16) technique and these 2 groups were compared for surgical failure, maximum urinary flow (Qmax), urinary symptoms, and quality of life (according to the International Prostate Symptom Score).

RESULTS

Both groups were similar for patient's and stricture characteristics. Only follow-up duration was significantly longer after Johanson PU (47.9 months versus 11.1 months; P = 0.003). For the entire cohort, 11 patients (21.6%) were considered a failure (9 or 25.7% for Johanson group and 2 or 12.5% for Blandy group; P = 0.248). There was a significant improvement of Qmax in both groups. Quality of life after PU was comparable in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

PU is associated with a 21.6% recurrence rate and the patient should be informed about this risk.