Meatal Stenosis
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for meatal stenosis. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need meatal stenosis care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.
What Is Meatal Stenosis?
Meatal stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the opening of the meatus (the tip of the penis). If the opening becomes too narrow, patients may experience difficulty urinating. This condition can occur at birth, after circumcision, or later in life.
Causes of Meatal Stenosis
Meatal stenosis typically develops after a surgical procedure in or around the male urethra. Circumcision, hypospadias repair or other surgeries may lead to irritation at the tip of the penis causing the meatus to narrow. In other cases, inflammation from infection or long-time use of catheters can result in meatal stenosis.
Signs & Symptoms of Meatal Stenosis
Symptoms of meatal stenosis include:
- Blood in the urine
- Difficulty urinating
- Increased frequency of urination
- Pain or burning during urination
- Small, narrow stream of urine
- Spraying urine
Diagnosing Meatal Stenosis
Meatal stenosis is typically diagnosed during a physical examination and a review of the patient’s urinary habits and flow rate.
Treating Meatal Stenosis
There are several treatments for meatal stenosis depending on the severity of the condition, including:
- Dilation: to stretch the meatus
- Meatotomy: a surgical procedure to correct the narrowing by enlarging the opening of the meatus
- Topical ointments or oral medications: to reduce inflammation from infection or catheter use, allowing the meatus to return to its proper size after the irritation is resolved