Complete urethral stricture of the membranous urethra: a different perspective.

Seven patients with complete rupture of the membranous urethra secondary to trauma were treated by internal optical urethrotomy (OU). All underwent initial suprapubic catheter drainage. The diagnosis of complete urethral rupture was confirmed by ascending and descending urethrograms and subsequent urethroscopy. OU was performed 3 weeks to 8 years following injury. Although all patients required further OUs for recurrent strictures, all can pass urine satisfactorily. Two patients have slight stress incontinence. This technique is a viable alternative to more conventional procedures for this condition.