Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Optical internal urethrotomy is a feasible modality of treatment for short segment bulbar urethral strictures. Recurrence is an important problem after urethrotomy. This study aimed at evaluating the efficacy of oral steroid (deflazocort) in reducing the recurrence of strictures after urethrotomy. Up to date, no study has evaluated the role of oral steroids after urethrotomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this case-control study, patients undergoing urethrotomy (bulbar urethral strictures <2 cm) were divided into two groups according to patients receiving (Group 1) or not receiving (Group 2) oral steroid (deflazocort 6 mg tablets) after operation. Both groups were controlled at 1, 3 and 6 months after catheter removal (usually 5-6 days after operation) with uroflowmetry, and the flow rates were statistically compared. Deflazocort was given after catheter removal, at first 6 mg twice daily for two weeks, then 6 mg once daily for another two weeks (self-obturation was not performed). RESULTS: A total of 72 patients were selected for the study as per inclusion criteria. They were divided into 2 groups as those receiving (Group 1: deflazocort group; n=36) or not receiving (Group 2; n=36) deflazocort. Median postoperative maximum flow rates in the deflazocort group were 26.2, 22.3 and 18.2 mL/sec, and in the control group was 24.4, 17.1 and 13.7 mL/sec at postoperative 1., 3. and 6. months, respectively. Lesser patients in the deflazocort group had recurrence. The difference was statistically significant only at postoperative 3 (p value=0.03), and 6. months (p value=0.02) (p value=0.15). CONCLUSION: Oral steroids can be used after internal urethrotomy to reduce the recurrence of urethral strictures.