Expert Urologic Care for Safe and Effective Relief of Urinary Blockage

If you're experiencing a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, or frequent urinary tract infections, you may be suffering from a urethral stricture (요도 협착 – yodo hyeopchak), a narrowing of the urethra that obstructs urine flow. This condition can cause chronic urinary discomfort and, if left untreated, lead to complications such as bladder damage or kidney issues. For foreigners in Korea, clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic offer comprehensive evaluation and advanced treatment of urethral strictures—backed by skilled urologists and English-speaking support.

What Is a Urethral Stricture and What Causes It?

A urethral stricture is a scar-like narrowing of the urethra, which restricts the passage of urine. The condition can occur at any point along the urethra and varies in length and severity.

Common Causes of Urethral Stricture:

• Trauma to the pelvis or perineum (e.g., fall, straddle injury)
• History of catheterization or endoscopic procedures
• Infections (e.g., gonorrhea or other STIs)
• Radiation therapy or prostate surgery
• Chronic inflammation or autoimmune disorders
• Congenital abnormalities (rare)

Symptoms of Urethral Stricture:

• Weak or slow urine stream
• Straining or hesitancy to urinate
• Incomplete bladder emptying
• Frequent urination or urinary urgency
• Dribbling after urination
• Pain or discomfort during urination
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• In severe cases, complete urinary retention

If untreated, chronic stricture can lead to bladder stones, recurrent infections, or kidney damage due to increased pressure.

Diagnosis of Urethral Stricture in Korea: Precise, Patient-Centered Evaluation

At Gangnam J Urology Clinic, diagnosis is efficient and includes imaging and flow analysis to determine stricture location and severity:

1. Detailed Consultation and Symptom Review:
   The doctor will evaluate your voiding patterns, past medical or surgical history, and any trauma or catheter use.
2. Urinalysis and Urine Culture:
   To check for infection or inflammation due to urinary retention.
3. Uroflowmetry (요속 검사):
   Measures flow rate and curve pattern—typically shows slow, flat stream in strictures.
4. Post-Void Residual (PVR) Ultrasound:
   Assesses how much urine remains in the bladder after voiding.
5. Retrograde Urethrogram (요도조영술):
   A specialized X-ray with contrast dye to visualize the urethra and pinpoint the exact site and length of narrowing.
6. Cystoscopy (방광경 검사):
   May be used to directly inspect the urethra and assess the feasibility of endoscopic treatment.

Urethral Stricture Treatment in Korea: Personalized and Modern Solutions

Treatment depends on the length, location, and severity of the stricture, as well as the patient’s age and general health. Korean urology clinics offer a range of treatments from conservative to surgical.

1. Urethral Dilation (요도 확장술):

• A minimally invasive procedure where a small instrument stretches the stricture to restore flow.
• Often used for short, simple strictures.
• May require repeat sessions over time.

2. Direct Vision Internal Urethrotomy (DVIU):

• An endoscopic procedure in which the scar tissue is incised under direct vision.
• Outpatient-based and quick recovery, but may not be permanent for longer or recurrent strictures.

3. Urethroplasty (요도 성형술):

• The gold standard for long or recurrent strictures.
• Involves surgically removing or bypassing the narrowed section, sometimes using tissue grafts (e.g., from the mouth).
• High long-term success rates with low recurrence.
• Performed at specialized hospitals and may require a short hospital stay.

4. Catheterization and Temporary Relief:

• In acute retention, a suprapubic or urethral catheter may be placed for immediate bladder drainage.

Why Choose Gangnam J Urology Clinic for Urethral Stricture Care?

• Experienced Urologists: Specialists skilled in both minimally invasive and reconstructive approaches.
• Advanced Diagnostics: On-site uroflowmetry, ultrasound, and contrast imaging for accurate mapping.
• Tailored Treatment Plans: Based on stricture severity and patient preferences.
• Discreet and Modern Setting: Designed for privacy and comfort during sensitive evaluations.
• English-Speaking Staff: Available in most Gangnam-based clinics for foreign patient support.

Cost of Urethral Stricture Evaluation and Treatment in Korea

With NHIS Coverage:

• Consultation: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
• Uroflowmetry: ₩10,000 – ₩25,000
• Imaging (Retrograde Urethrogram): ₩30,000 – ₩70,000
• Cystoscopy: ₩30,000 – ₩80,000
• DVIU or Dilation Procedure (co-pay): ₩100,000 – ₩300,000
  Total (with NHIS): ₩50,000 – ₩400,000 depending on procedure

Without NHIS (Out-of-Pocket):

• Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Uroflowmetry: ₩30,000 – ₩70,000
• Imaging/Contrast Study: ₩80,000 – ₩150,000
• DVIU Procedure: ₩1,000,000 – ₩2,000,000
• Urethroplasty (if referred to surgical center): ₩3,000,000 – ₩6,000,000+
  Total (without NHIS): ₩250,000 – ₩6,000,000+, depending on treatment path

When to See a Urologist for Urethral Stricture

Make an appointment if you experience:

• Weak or dribbling urine stream
• Difficulty starting or maintaining urination
• Recurrent UTIs or urinary retention
• History of pelvic trauma, surgery, or catheterization with new urinary symptoms
• Incomplete bladder emptying



Urethral stricture is a treatable condition, and with proper evaluation, most patients experience significant symptom relief. Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic provide fast, private diagnosis and offer modern treatment options—from simple dilation to surgical reconstruction. For foreigners in Korea, bilingual service, up-to-date technology, and compassionate care make managing urethral strictures safer, smoother, and more comfortable than ever. Don’t let urinary difficulties disrupt your life—seek care early and reclaim normal bladder function.