How does adhesion at the urethral meatus occur after circumcision?
Generally, urethral adhesion after circumcision is caused by residual urine and secretions, congenital urethral developmental abnormalities, surgical trauma, postoperative scar tissue formation, or wound infection. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Residual Urine and Secretions
After surgery, residual urine, wound exudate, or skin secretions may accumulate near the urethral opening. If not cleaned promptly, these substances may cause adhesion. It is important to maintain local hygiene, change underwear regularly, and clean the wound as instructed.
2. Congenital Urethral Developmental Abnormalities
Some patients may have abnormal positioning of the urethral opening or urethral stricture, which increases the risk of postoperative adhesion. Depending on the specific condition, urethroplasty may be required to reconstruct the normal urethral structure.
3. Surgical Trauma
Circumcision itself causes some degree of trauma to surrounding tissues, which may lead to adhesion around the urethral opening. During surgery, procedures such as cutting and suturing may damage the mucosa and skin near the urethral opening, resulting in adhesion. Urethral adhesion caused by surgical trauma can generally be prevented by maintaining local hygiene and avoiding infection.
4. Postoperative Scar Tissue Formation
During wound healing, excessive activation of fibroblasts may lead to overproduction of collagen and the formation of scar tissue. If this occurs near the urethral opening, it may cause adhesion, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as discomfort during urination or a narrowed urine stream. It is recommended to use medications such as heparin sodium ointment, vitamin E capsules, or asiaticoside tablets as directed by a physician.
5. Surgical Wound Infection
After circumcision, improper wound care or poor personal hygiene may lead to bacterial infection, causing inflammation of tissues around the urethral opening and subsequent adhesion, which may present with symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain. It is necessary to use antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules, penicillin V potassium tablets, or azithromycin dispersible tablets as directed by a physician.
Wear loose-fitting underwear to avoid pressure on the surgical site, which may interfere with postoperative recovery.