Urethral Reconstruction in Patients with Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction

Prolonged urethral catheterization can lead to significant urethral defects, including strictures, diverticula, erosions, and fistulas. Although it is a potentially challenging procedure, urethral reconstruction can allow patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction to continue clean intermittent catheterization, improve or maintain their cosmetic appearance, and improve sexual function. There is a paucity of literature focusing specifically on urethral reconstruction in patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction, with most studies involving small, heterogeneous populations. This article reviews published outcomes of urethral reconstruction and comments on the technical aspects of repair in patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.