Overview
Intermittent self-dilation. Self-dilation involves inserting a small tube, called a catheter, into the urethra and
gently guiding it past the stricture. The goal is to keep the urethra open. This treatment typically is used after a
dilation or urethrotomy. Talk to your care team about how often you would need to do this.
Long-term indwelling catheter. During this procedure, a small tube is inserted through the urethra or
abdominal wall and into the bladder. The tube is called a suprapubic catheter. The goal is to continuously
drain your bladder. You use a catheter as long as it is needed. The catheter is replaced on a monthly basis.