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Abnormalities in Structure of Male Urethra


Abnormalities in Structure of Male Urethra

Conditions like urethral strictures obstruct the free flow of urine through the urethra.

Sometimes, the development of the urethra does not take place correctly, resulting in abnormalities in structure. Some of these abnormalities are listed below:

  • Hypospadias and epispadias: Hypospadias is a condition where the tip of the urethra opens on the underside of the penis instead of near the tip. In epispadias, the urethra opens on the upper side of the penis.
  • Anterior and posterior urethral valves: Posterior urethral valves are thin membranes within the urethra that obstruct the flow of urine and are usually detected through ultrasonography before birth. The anterior urethral valves are usually detected later in life based on symptoms.
  • Urethral strictures: An abnormal narrowing around a part of the urethra is called a stricture. Strictures may be present from birth or may develop later due to trauma or disease like kidney stones or tumors. They prevent the free flow of urine.
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  • Urethral duplication: Urethral duplication is a condition where there is an additional either complete or incomplete urethra in the same person. The additional urethra may have a blind end, may open into the main urethra or may open out through a separate opening in the penis.
  • Urethrorectal fistulae: Urethrorectal fistula is a condition where there is an abnormal connection between the urethra and the lower digestive tract, resulting in the passage of feces and gas through the urethra.
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