[Female urethral diverticula. Our experience over 10 years].

OBJECTIVE

To review our series of urethral diverticulum in the female, an uncommon condition whose etiology continues to be a subject of discussion. The etiopathogenic hypotheses are briefly reviewed. The clinical features, current diagnostic methods and treatment are analyzed.

METHODS

A 10-year retrospective study was conducted at our hospital. The risk factors, presenting features and postoperative complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

Only six cases of diverticulum of the female urethra were found. Recurrent infection and the presence of a palpable mass were the most common clinical features. Diagnosis was made by voiding and retrograde cystourethrography and urethroscopy. All patients underwent surgery. Postoperative control evaluation was performed by cystourethrography.

CONCLUSIONS

Diverticulum of the female urethra is an uncommon urological disease which should be taken into account when making a diagnosis. Its etiopathogenesis has as yet to be established, although it is accepted to be predominantly of acquired origin and related with paraurethral gland pathology. Its clinical features are unspecific or it may cause florid urinary symptoms. Our patients were diagnosed by cystourethrography, although other diagnostic imaging techniques are currently available. Treatment is by surgery, which achieves good results and the complication rate is low.