AINU hosts urology conference to discuss advancements in urethral reconstruction surgery

New Delhi: The Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology (AINU) hosted one of the country’s largest urology conferences, Urethra@AINU, which attracted 800 attendees from eight countries, sharing invaluable insights into the latest surgical techniques in urethral reconstruction surgery.

Urethral reconstruction surgery is often necessitated by the narrowing of the urethra, leading to reduced urine flow and severe complications. Urethral strictures, which predominantly affect males but can also occur in females and children, have seen a shift in causative factors over the years. Historically, poor hygiene, especially in rural areas, was a major contributor. However, due to increased awareness and improved healthcare policies, the incidence has reduced by 30-40% over the past two decades.

Urologists at AINU have noted a rising trend in surgeries due to road accidents, with infection-led cases following closely. Dr. Bhavatej Enganti, Consultant Urologist at AINU and organizing secretary of the conference, highlighted, “Urethral damage often occurs when there are multiple fractures in road accidents. In such cases, it is necessary to wait for a few months before corrective surgery. The incidence of accidents has been increasing recently, and when vehicles collide at high speeds, the urethra, along with other organs, suffers severe damage. We are also observing the narrowing of the urethra due to UTI and STI-related complications. Radiation treatments for cancer also lead to urethral problems. Congenital abnormalities necessitate such procedures like some children are born without a proper urethra. Additionally, Infections due to extended hospital stays, bedridden conditions, and the use of catheters, can also lead to urethral strictures.”

Urethral repairs carry a risk of failure, often requiring the use of the patient’s own tissue for reconstruction. Tissue from the buccal cavity (inner lining of the cheeks) is commonly used. These procedures necessitate advanced genetic engineering or bioengineering skills. In cases where multiple attempts fail and tissue availability becomes an issue, regenerative methods based on cell therapy are employed, allowing the urethra to heal itself.

Dr. C. Mallikarjuna, Managing Director and Chief Consultant Urologist of AINU, revealed, “In the past nine years, we have performed over 1,000 urethral reconstruction surgeries. Starting with 50 cases annually, we now handle 200-250 cases per year, placing us among the top centers in South India for such surgeries. The key aim of the conference is to receive training and learn from experts. Urethral reconstruction surgeries are complex with high failure rates, and there is a pressing need for skilled and efficient surgeons to bridge the demand gap from a patient’s perspective.”

The Urethra@AINU conference saw participation from over 700 delegates from countries including the UK, Uganda, Nepal, Bangladesh, Singapore, Thailand, and Gulf countries. Renowned urologists such as Dr. Sanjay Kulkarni from Pune and Dr. Ganesh Gopalakrishnan from Coimbatore were key faculty members at the event. Ajit Rangnekar, former Dean of ISB Hyderabad, graced the conference as one of the keynote speakers, emphasizing the importance of continued education and collaboration in advancing urological care.