vesicourethral anastomosis
Pronunciation: /VES-ih-koh-yoo-REE-thral an-as-toh-MOH-sis/
The surgical connection between the bladder neck and urethra following removal of the prostate.
Full Definition
Vesicourethral anastomosis is the critical surgical step in radical prostatectomy where the bladder neck is sutured to the urethral stump after prostate removal. The quality of this anastomosis directly impacts postoperative outcomes including continence recovery, anastomotic stricture rates, and operative complications. Various suturing techniques have been developed to optimize healing and functional outcomes. Contrast studies may be performed to evaluate anastomotic integrity before catheter removal.
Usage
Usage note: Order matters: vesico- (bladder) comes before urethral; often abbreviated as VUA in surgical notes.
In Context
- "The vesicourethral anastomosis was performed with interrupted sutures using a tennis racket technique." — Operative report
- "Cystogram revealed no extravasation at the vesicourethral anastomosis prior to catheter removal." — Imaging study report