Urethral Stricture Surgery Cost in Turkey

Urethral stricture surgery cost in Turkey starts from 3000 USD to 12,000 USD depending on the type of procedure and other factors such as the location of cities, doctor expertise, etc.

Factors That Can Affect Urethral Stricture Surgery Cost in Turkey

Following below are the various factors that can affect urethral stricture surgery cost in Turkey:

Severity and Duration of the Stricture: More complex or lengthy strictures typically necessitate advanced surgical methods, which can elevate the total expense of urethral stricture surgery in Turkey.

Type of Surgical Procedure: Procedures such as urethrotomy, urethroplasty, or surgeries involving grafts differ in their complexity and associated cost of urethral stricture surgery in Turkey.

Surgeon’s Qualifications and Skill Level: Surgeons with extensive experience and expertise may command higher fees for their services.

Selection of Hospital or Clinic: High-end hospitals equipped with cutting-edge technology and international certifications may charge more for treatment.

Pre-operative and Post-operative Care: Costs can also include diagnostic assessments, medications, hospital stays, and follow-up appointments.

Anesthesia and Operating Room Fees: The choice of anesthesia and the length of the surgical procedure can affect the overall pricing of urethral stricture surgery in Turkey.

Existing Health Conditions: Patients with additional medical issues may require specialized treatment, which can increase the cost of urethral stricture in Turkey.

Geographical Location in Turkey: Pricing may vary between major cities like Istanbul and Ankara compared to smaller towns.

Types of Procedure for Urethral Stricture Surgery Cost in Turkey

Urethral Stricture Surgery Cost in Different Cities in Turkey

An Overview on Urethral Stricture

Urethral stricture is a urological issue that primarily affects men. It involves the constriction of the urethra, the passage that facilitates the expulsion of urine from the body. This condition can cause various uncomfortable symptoms, often resulting in a diminished urinary flow. As the urethra narrows, urination becomes increasingly challenging. Other potential symptoms include difficulty fully emptying the bladder, urine spraying, and pain or discomfort during urination.

Although some individuals with urethral stricture may remain asymptomatic and continue their daily routines without any issues, it is crucial to understand that the condition can deteriorate and result in severe complications, such as bladder damage. Therefore, it is vital to seek timely medical intervention.

Causes

Men are at a higher risk of developing urethral diseases or experiencing injuries to the urethra due to its longer structure compared to that of women. This anatomical difference is a key reason why strictures are more commonly observed in males, while they are rare in females and infants.

It is crucial to recognize that injuries can occur anywhere along the urethra, from the bladder to the urethral opening at the tip of the penis, leading to a condition known as stricture. This narrowing can significantly impede or even completely block the normal flow of urine. Common causes include:

• Trauma to the urethra
• Infections, such as STDs/STIs or other treatable conditions
• Damage from surgical instruments
• Conditions that lead to inflammation.

In many instances, a specific cause may not be identified. In adults, the most frequent contributors to urethral strictures include:

• Trauma from a fall onto the scrotum or perineum
• Prostate surgery
• Kidney stone removal
• Urinary catheterization
• Other surgical interventions.

Diagnosis of Urethral Stricture

To identify a urethral stricture, we may perform a physical examination or utilize one of the following diagnostic methods:

• Retrograde urethrogram: This imaging test employs X-rays and contrast dye to assess the length and severity of the stricture.
• Urine flow test and ultrasound: These tests evaluate how the urethral stricture affects urine flow.
• Ultrasound: This procedure checks for any abnormal residual urine in the bladder after urination.
• Cystoscopy: This involves the careful insertion of a small, flexible, lubricated fiberoptic scope into the urethra under local anesthesia to inspect the stricture’s location and characteristics.

Treatment

A range of treatment options is available depending on the severity of the blockage and the presence of scar tissue. The treatment methods include:

• Dilation: A gradual process to expand the narrowed area.
• Urethrotomy: Employing a laser or scalpel to cut through the stricture using a scope
• Open surgery: Surgical removal of the stricture, followed by reconnection and reconstruction, which may involve grafting (urethroplasty).

Dilation: This procedure is usually performed in a urologist’s office under local anesthesia. The narrowing is gradually widened using larger dilators known as “sounds.” Alternatively, a specialized balloon connected to a catheter may be used to expand the tissue. However, this method is not a permanent fix and requires regular repetition. If the narrowing tends to recur quickly, you may be advised on how to self-catheterize occasionally to help prevent its return. Possible side effects include bleeding and infection, and in some cases, the dilation may result in the creation of a “false passage” or secondary urethral channel.

Urethrotomy: This technique involves using a specialized scope to navigate through the urethra until the stricture is identified. A knife or laser attached to the cystoscope is then used to cut the structure and create an opening. To keep the opening open and promote healing, a catheter may be placed in the urethra. The length of time the catheter needs to remain in place is based on the severity of the stricture.

Open Surgery: A variety of reconstructive methods are available for addressing strictures, with some techniques necessitating one or two surgical interventions. The choice of the most suitable repair approach is influenced by factors such as the location, size, and severity of the stricture. It is essential to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for every case. The two main categories of repairs are anastomotic urethroplasty and substitution urethroplasty.

• Anastomotic Urethroplasty: This method is generally employed for short urethral strictures. The procedure involves making an incision between the scrotum and rectum, followed by the reconnection of the urethra after excising the stricture. It is often performed as an outpatient procedure or with a short hospital stay. A soft catheter is placed in the penis for 10 to 21 days and is removed after an X-ray confirms that the repair is healing properly.
• Substitution Urethroplasty: For longer strictures, tissue transfer may be necessary to replace the affected segment. In more complicated cases, replacement repairs may need to be conducted in stages. These procedures must be carried out by a urologist experienced in such operations. Generally, the results are very positive. The three types of substitution techniques include free grafts, skin flaps, and staged procedures.

After the Procedure: Urethral strictures can reappear after surgical intervention, making it essential for patients to have continuous follow-ups with a urologist. After the removal of the catheter, your doctor will carry out routine physical assessments and X-rays, and may also utilize urethroscopy to evaluate the surgical repair. Although some individuals might face a recurrence of the stricture without needing additional treatment, any obstruction could require procedures such as urethrotomy or dilation. In instances of recurrent severe strictures, a second open surgery may be required.

Also Read:- Urethral Stricture Surgery Cost in India

Bottom Line

Urethral stricture surgery in Turkey offers patients access to high-quality urological care at a more affordable price compared to many Western countries. However, the final cost can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the condition, surgical method, and hospital choice. It’s essential to consult with a qualified urologist and plan the procedure with clarity on all associated expenses.