A meatotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made to enlarge the urinary meatus, the opening at the tip of the urethra through which urine exits the body. This procedure is typically performed to treat meatal stenosis, a condition where the meatus becomes abnormally narrow, leading to difficulty in urination, a weak urinary stream, incomplete bladder emptying, or discomfort. Meatal stenosis can occur due to chronic irritation, scarring, infections, or after certain surgeries like circumcision. In children, it is often congenital or develops after birth. The primary cause for meatotomy is meatal stenosis, but it may also be done in cases where there is a structural abnormality of the urethral opening that interferes with normal urination. By enlarging the meatus, the procedure helps restore proper urine flow and alleviates associated symptoms.
Although meatotomy is a simple and effective procedure, it comes with potential complications. These include infection, bleeding, and discomfort during the healing process. In rare cases, excessive scar tissue may form, causing re-narrowing of the meatus, which may require further intervention. There may also be temporary changes in the direction or force of the urine stream post-surgery. Most patients recover quickly, and the results are generally long-lasting, with significant improvement in urinary function. Proper post-operative care, including hygiene and follow-up visits with a healthcare provider, is important to ensure healing and to minimize the risk of complications.
