Intermediate
Technical
IVT
meatotomy
Pronunciation: mee-AT-oh-toe-mee
Surgical enlargement of the urethral opening (meatus) to correct stenosis or stricture.
Full Definition
Meatotomy is a minor surgical procedure involving incision of the urethral meatus to widen the opening and improve urinary flow. This procedure is commonly performed in pediatric patients with meatal stenosis, often following circumcision, or in adults with acquired meatal narrowing. The surgery typically involves a ventral or dorsal incision through the meatal opening, followed by suturing to maintain the enlarged opening. Meatotomy can be performed under local anesthesia in adults or general anesthesia in children.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from meatoplasty, which involves reconstruction rather than simple incision.
In Context
- "Meatotomy was performed to correct post-circumcision meatal stenosis in the pediatric patient." — operative note
- "The urologist recommended meatotomy to improve the patient's urinary stream." — consultation report
Also known as
meatal incision
urethral meatotomy
Don't confuse with
meatoplasty
urethrotomy
circumcision