Management of post-radical prostatectomy anastomotic stricture by endoscopic transurethral balloon dilatation

OBJECTIVE: Anastomotic strictures are seen more commonly with increasing treatment of prostate cancer by means of radical prostatectomy. In view of the proximity to the sphincter, anastomotic strictures need careful management to avoid making the patient incontinent. We describe our experience with a novel method. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Nine patients who had developed anastomotic strictures were treated with endoscopic transurethral balloon dilatation. A catheter was left in place for 24 h postoperatively. RESULTS: Eight patients were treated successfully and remained well after a median follow-up period of 33 months. There were no complications and all patients remained continent. CONCLUSION: This is a safe and effective procedure that should be used as a first-line treatment for the management of anastomotic strictures, with transurethral incision being reserved for non-responders.