Urethral Warts: Recovery and Function After Electrocautery

Electrocautery for urethral condyloma?

I discovered cauliflower-like growths at the urethral opening at the end of February and underwent electrosurgical excision under local anesthesia.
During the procedure, the doctor mentioned that there were too many growths inside the urethra, and it was necessary to make an incision, which required two stitches.
My recovery is going well, but I still have some yellowish discharge, and there is still swelling at the tip of the foreskin.
Urination is normal.
Given that the incision at the urethral opening is somewhat large, will this affect my urination and ejaculation functions (erection is not an issue)? Additionally, when will the swelling of the foreskin subside? (The doctor advised that pinching the swollen area while urinating would help reduce the swelling.) Thank you.

Luo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/15

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

A slightly enlarged urethral opening should not affect urination or ejaculation functions.
Generally, there should be no swelling for about two weeks.

Reply Date: 2016/03/15

More Info

Urethral warts, also known as genital warts, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear in various locations, including the urethra. The treatment you underwent, electrocautery, is a common method for removing these warts. It involves using electrical currents to cut through tissue, which can be effective in removing warts while minimizing bleeding.

After undergoing electrocautery for urethral warts, it is normal to experience some recovery symptoms, including the secretion of yellowish fluid and swelling at the site of surgery. This fluid is often a part of the healing process, as your body works to repair the tissue. The swelling at the tip of the penis may take some time to resolve, and it is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding care and management during this period.

Regarding your concerns about urinary and sexual functions, it is understandable to be apprehensive after surgery. The incision made during the procedure, while it may seem significant, typically does not have a lasting impact on urination or ejaculation. The urethra is a flexible tube, and as long as the surgical site heals properly, you should not experience any long-term issues with urination or ejaculation. The fact that you are able to urinate normally is a positive sign that your urethra is functioning well post-surgery.

However, it is essential to monitor your recovery closely. If you notice any significant changes in your urinary stream, such as difficulty urinating, pain during urination, or any unusual discharge, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider. They can assess whether these symptoms are part of the normal healing process or if they indicate a complication.

As for the swelling of the foreskin, this can be a common occurrence after surgery, especially if there was manipulation of the area. The swelling should gradually subside over time, but the duration can vary from person to person. Your doctor’s advice to apply gentle pressure while urinating to help reduce swelling is a practical approach. This technique can help minimize discomfort and promote healing.

In general, recovery from electrocautery for urethral warts can take a few weeks. During this time, it is vital to maintain good hygiene and avoid any activities that could irritate the area, such as vigorous sexual activity or excessive friction. If you have any concerns about your recovery or if the symptoms persist longer than expected, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while the surgery may have caused temporary changes, it is unlikely to have a lasting negative impact on your urinary or sexual functions. The yellow discharge and swelling are part of the healing process, and with proper care, you should expect a full recovery. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider to address any concerns that may arise during your recovery.

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