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What is Bladder Neck Stricture?

Below is a brief introduction to bladder neck stricture. Please always consult a doctor for an examination if you experience symptoms or suspect bladder neck stricture.

How Bladder Neck Stricture Affects Urine Flow

Bladder neck stricture is the limiting of the urine flow through the bladder neck, which impedes the body’s ability to pass urine. bladder neck stricture can occur in varying severity from light strictures with limited symptoms and some continued flow of urine, to complete and acute obstructions with severe symptoms and no urine passage. Symptoms or suspicions of bladder neck stricture should always be consulted with a doctor.
Learn about the bladder
Illustration of bladder neck with Memokath stent restoring urine flow

Bladder Neck Stricture in the Urinary System

The kidneys produce urine, which is transported to the urinary bladder. The bladder stores urine until it is emptied through the urethra during urination. For normal urine flow to occur, the opening between the bladder and the urethra, known as the bladder neck,  must remain unobstructed.

Bladder neck stricture is a condition in which this opening becomes narrowed, restricting the flow of urine from the bladder. This narrowing can interfere with normal bladder emptying and may lead to urinary symptoms that require medical intervention to avoid patient complications. 

Symptoms of Bladder Neck Stricture

  • Difficulty starting urination
  • Weak or interrupted urine stream
  • A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
  • Increased need to urinate, especially at night
  • Straining during urination

The Memokath™ solution 

Memokath™ is a long-term solution for men who are not able nor wish to go through often repeated procedures or major surgery.

Memokath™ is a supportive spiral tube made of nickel-titanium ”Ni-Ti” which is inserted in the urethra to re-create passage of the urine.

Memokath™ is inserted under local anaesthesia and the stent is carefully inserted through the penis and placed with a cystoscope. The insertion usually takes about 30-40 minutes. After the insertion it is advised to drink plenty of water to minimize the risk of cystitis. Most patients can leave the hospital the same day and return to their daily routines.

Memokath™ is designed as a long-term solution and it can be left in place for several years

Memokath™ does not activate security alarms. Since it is CT- and MRI compatible getting a scan is no problem. It does not cause nickel allergy as there is no nickel on the stent surface.

Illustration of bladder neck stricture obstructing urine flow
Illustration of bladder neck with Memokath stent restoring urine flow

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do before the procedure?
For Memokath™ 045, local anaesthesia is often sufficient. If visual internal urethrotomy (VIU) or dilation is needed, general or spinal anaesthesia may be used. Other preparations, such as antibiotics, will be decided by your healthcare provider based on the planned procedure.
Will the procedure hurt?
Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. Local anaesthesia is typically used to minimise discomfort. If general or spinal anaesthesia is used, you are unlikely to feel anything during the procedure. Your healthcare provider will discuss the most suitable type of anaesthesia with you beforehand.
Will I have pain after the procedure?
Most patients experience little to no pain after insertion of the Memokath™ 045 stent. Some mild irritation or temporary blood in the urine may occur after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will explain what to expect and when you should contact them if needed.
How soon can I return to my normal activities?
Most patients can return to their normal daily activities shortly after the procedure. A short period of rest is usually recommended. Your healthcare provider will advise you on when it is appropriate to return to your usual activities based on your individual condition and procedure.
Will I have any wounds after the procedure?
Because the stent is inserted internally through the urinary tract, the procedure usually does not cause any external wounds. Some patients may notice blood in the urine after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will explain what to expect and whether any aftercare is needed.
Is there anything I should avoid after the procedure?
Patients are advised to avoid vigorous physical activity and sexual intercourse for up to two weeks after insertion of the Memokath™ 045 bladder neck stent. Your healthcare provider will advise you on when it is safe to return to your normal activities.
Is there a risk of nickel allergy from the stent?
The Memokath™ 045 bladder neck stent is made from a biocompatible nickel-titanium alloy (NiTi), a material commonly used in medical devices. The stent is designed to minimise nickel ion release because the surface does not contain nickel.
What can I do to reduce the risk of deposits forming on the stent?
Drinking enough fluids each day can help maintain a healthy flow of urine and may reduce the build-up of mineral deposits on the stent. Your healthcare provider can advise you on an appropriate fluid intake based on your individual needs. If deposits do form, the Memokath™ 045 bladder neck stent is designed so that it can be removed or replaced using minimally invasive techniques.