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This study evaluates the effectiveness of autologous platelet-rich plasma injection alongside optical internal urethrotomy for urethral stricture.

April 12, 2026Open Access

Use of autologous platelet-rich plasma in short-segment urethral stricture (a comparative study): Experience in a tertiary care hospital

Key Points

This study evaluates the effectiveness of autologous platelet-rich plasma injection alongside optical internal urethrotomy for urethral stricture.
Conducted a prospective comparative study involving 64 patients with short-segment urethral stricture.
Patients were randomized into two groups: OIU alone (control) and OIU with submucosal PRP injection.
Submucosal injection of 4 mL of autologous PRP was performed at eight sites after urethrotomy.
Postoperative maximum flow rate (Qmax) was measured at 6 months using nonparametric statistics.
PRP group showed an improvement in mean Qmax from 6.39 to 17.34 mL/s, while control improved from 5.93 to 11.39 mL/s (P < 0.001).
Median Qmax was 17 mL/s in the PRP group versus 12 mL/s in the control group.
Statistical analysis (Mann–Whitney) indicated a significant difference (U = 123, P < 0.001; effect size r ≈ 0.53).
No major complications were reported during the study.

Abstract

Background: Optical internal urethrotomy (OIU) remains a common intervention for short-segment urethral stricture, but recurrence rates remain high. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), rich in bioactive growth factors, may enhance wound healing and reduce fibrosis. This study evaluates the impact of submucosal autologous PRP injection as an adjunct to OIU. Methodology: In this prospective comparative study, 64 patients with short-segment urethral stricture ( 0.05). At 6 months, mean Qmax improved from 6.39 to 17.34 mL/s in the PRP group and from 5.93 to 11.39 mL/s in the control group ( P < 0.001). Median Qmax was 17 vs. 12 mL/s, respectively. Mann–Whitney analysis demonstrated a significant difference (U = 123, P < 0.001; effect size r ≈ 0.53). No major complications were observed. Conclusion: Submucosal PRP injection significantly enhances postoperative urinary flow following OIU. Its regenerative and antifibrotic properties suggest a promising role as an adjunct therapy. Larger trials with long-term follow-up are needed to determine durability of benefit and recurrence outcomes.

Use of autologous platelet-rich plasma in short-segment urethral stricture (a comparative study): Experience in a tertiary care hospital

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