2nd Stage Urethroplasty : University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

What to expect following surgery

During the 2nd stage urethroplasty operation the urethra (water pipe) is rolled into a tube. After the operation you can expect to return to the ward with a dressing around the penis which will keep the wound clean and dry. If you are discharged home with the dressing in place you will be advised as to when it should be removed.

If the dressing is removed before you leave hospital you will be supplied with pads to protect the wound and support the penis in your underwear.

You will also be sent home with a urinary catheter in place to divert urine away from the wound to keep it dry and promote healing. To prevent breakdown of the wound on the penis it is essential that the catheter is secured to prevent it pulling down on the wound and stitches. You will be given instruction on caring for your catheter at home by the ward staff.

If you go home with the dressing in place it is important to keep the dressing dry so you must not bath or shower.

You will receive a date for catheter removal 2-3 weeks after the surgery which will take place in clinic, or sometimes in our radiology (X-ray department) after a peri-catheter urethrogram. A peri-catheter urethrogram is a study whereby a very fine tube is inserted alongside the catheter and contrast medium is injected to establish if the wound has healed.

What to expect when you get home

Bleeding: You should not experience any major bleeding. It is however normal for there to be slight ooze of blood onto the pad. This can be stopped by applying pressure to the area using a clean piece of gauze to press firmly onto the area for about 10mins.

If bleeding does not stop, seek medical advice.

Pain: You are likely to experience some discomfort or pain following your operation. Please take your painkillers regularly as prescribed. Do not exceed the stated dose. This discomfort/ pain will improve over time but may take a few weeks to disappear.

Returning to work: You will usually require two weeks off work. If you require a sick certificate, please ask the medical team before you leave hospital.

Follow up appointment: You will receive an appointment 2-3 weeks after surgery for removal of the catheter. This will either be done in the outpatient clinic with the Clinical Nurse Practitioner (CNP) or in the radiology department after the urethrogram provided the wound has healed. Further outpatient follow up will be arranged after this visit.

Aftercare: To minimise complications you must not do any heavy lifting (nothing heavier than a full kettle of water) for two weeks

You must not have sex for six weeks following surgery or until the wound has fully healed

If you experience any of the following, please Contact the Clinical Nurse Practitioner or your medical team via the numbers below. Out of hours, please contact your GP or nearest Accident & Emergency Department.