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Female urethral dilation

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Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The aim of this manuscript is to review the subject of urethral dilation (UD) in female patients and to conduct a critical appraisal of the available evidence for its use.

Methods

We used an online search of electronic databases.

Results

UD has been cited as a treatment option for various conditions that do not share common etiologies and that affect the lower urinary tract in female patients. Outcome measurement was not consistent, even when performed for the same conditions. A total of six randomized controlled trials failed to prove any benefit for UD in repetitive urinary tract infections (UTI), urethral syndrome, and overactive bladder.

Conclusions

Conflicting results and diverse opinions have characterized the use of UD until present time. Professional societies are urged to attend to this issue, and to identify possible areas where UD could be potentially investigated.

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Abbreviations

BOO:

Bladder-outlet obstruction

BoNT/A:

Botulinum toxin A

CIC:

Clean intermittent catheterization

DSD:

Detrusor sphincter dyssynergia

EMG:

Electromyogram

LPP:

Leak-point pressure

LUTS:

Lower urinary tract symptoms

MRI:

Magnetic resonance imaging

OAB:

Overactive bladder

PBS/IC:

Painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis

TVT:

Tension-free vaginal tape

UD:

Urethral dilation

SUI:

Stress urinary incontinence

UTI:

Urinary tract infections

VCUG:

Voiding cystourethrography

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon

    Tony Bazi & Gael Abou-Ghannam

  2. 3 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, 8th Floor, New York, NY, 10017-2303, USA

    Tony Bazi & Raja Khauli

  3. Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon

    Raja Khauli

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  1. Tony Bazi
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  2. Gael Abou-Ghannam
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  3. Raja Khauli
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Correspondence to Tony Bazi.

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Bazi, T., Abou-Ghannam, G. & Khauli, R. Female urethral dilation. Int Urogynecol J 24, 1435–1444 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-013-2055-5

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