AboutArthur Goldstein, M.D. Expertise Any problems or questions related to the field of urology; ie urinary stone disease, urinary cancers (kidney, bladder, prostate, testis, etc.), urinary infections, impotency, etc.
Experience I am retired from the active practice of urology. My 34 years was totally in the clinical field and involved the entire gamut of genitourinary problems, with special interest in male impotence and endourology.
Organizations American Medical Association, American Urological Association, American College of Surgeons
Since my series of events is so far documented in extreme detail in the series of questions on this forum, I think it's only appropriate that I follow up with the final conclusion after the recovery is completed. I have just one[minor] question left.
On 11/03/2005[I was able to get them to move up the previous 11/10/2005 date after much bugging] I had a retrograde urethrogram taken and the catheter removed. A severe 2.5cm stricture was not even evident of ever existing, as was in the pre-op x-rays. The repair was so good that it almost looked like a textbook perfect urethra. [I wish I had the x-rays to link here for you to see, but I could not get them to give me copies of the x-rays]. The removal of the catheter was extremely painful after 3 weeks of dwelling. The pain stopped about 10-15 minutes after removal. My urination rate went from a maximum of 7 ml/second[pre-op] to 30 ml/second[post-op]. It is a new[and refreshing] experience to be able to void with no stricture obstruction[which sometimes slowed the stream to 1 or 2 ml/second on bad days, or even complete blockage on at least 2 occasions]. Despite being only a couple of days since recovery[and removal of catheter] I have no blood or pain when urinating. The skin removal[for the graft] from my penis was not a wise decision, however, IMO. Upon full erection, the skin on the back is now so tight as to be 'drum skin glossy' tight, and painful[on the skin where it is severely stretching] when the final inch of erection is achieved.
Q: Can you recommend something to relieve this pain caused from stretching, or some way to stretch the skin permantly so that this pain goes away for good?
Aside from the strecthed skin issue, everything is perfect. I have to thank you Dr. Goldstein for the massive amount of help you provided me with in this series of events. In some cases, you have provided more useful answers than my urologist or surgeon have provided. Have a wonderful day!
-Chris
Answer Chris, usually the skin softens on its own and regains its elasticity over time. There are a number of creams that contain vitamin E and aloe that can be utilized in the interim to keep the skin soft and pliable and to help reduce scarring. Some of these agents also contain silicone. I am pleased to learn of your favorable results with respect to the stricture.
