Urethral Trauma

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access expert care for urethral trauma. As a global leader in urology, we are a referral center for the most complex cases and have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary conditions for more than a century.

Ranked among the top 1% of hospitals nationwide for urology by U.S. News & World Report, our multidisciplinary team uses advanced diagnostic techniques like retrograde urethrography and leading-edge treatments, to ensure the best outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Our approach includes comprehensive support services, such as nutritional guidance and rehabilitation therapies, to help restore function and quality of life. We are pioneers in minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic and laparoscopic approaches, and provide access to clinical trials for innovative therapies, ensuring our patients benefit from the latest advancements in urologic care.

When you need urethral trauma care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

There are two primary types of urethral trauma:

• Anterior urethral trauma: injuries occurring in the portion of the urethra extending from the bladder to the penis, often caused by straddle injuries or blunt force
• Posterior urethral trauma: injuries occurring in the portion of the urethra near the bladder and pelvic floor, commonly associated with pelvic fractures from severe trauma such as motor vehicle accidents

Urethral trauma can result from various causes, including:

• Blunt trauma: straddle injuries, falls, or motor vehicle accidents leading to pelvic fractures
• Iatrogenic causes: medical procedures like catheterization or endoscopic interventions that inadvertently damage the urethra
• Penetrating injuries: gunshot wounds, stab wounds or surgical complications

Symptoms of urethral trauma vary depending on the severity and location of the injury and may include:

• Blood at the tip of the urethra (meatus)
• Bruising in the perineum or around the scrotum
• Difficulty urinating or complete inability to urinate
• Leakage of urine into surrounding tissues, causing inflammation or infection
• Pain or swelling in the lower abdomen, perineum, or genital area

Diagnosis of urethral trauma typically involves:

• Physical examination: assessment for visible signs like blood at the meatus or bruising in the perineal area
• Retrograde urethrography: imaging test using contrast dye to evaluate the urethra for tears or disruptions
• Ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans: to identify associated injuries, especially in the case of pelvic fractures

Treatment of urethral trauma depends on the location and severity of the injury:

• Catheterization: For minor injuries, a catheter is inserted to divert urine and allow healing.
• Suprapubic catheterization: For severe injuries, a catheter is placed directly into the bladder through the abdominal wall to bypass the urethra.
• Surgical repair: Complex injuries often require surgical intervention to reconstruct the urethra and restore its function.
• Long-term management: This may include monitoring for complications like strictures, which may need additional procedures such as dilation or urethroplasty.