VIU (Visual Internal Urethrotomy) or OIU (Optical Internal Urethrotomy) is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure used to treat urethral stricture, a condition where the urethra becomes narrowed due to scarring.
Performed by Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar, this procedure provides quick relief by widening the narrowed segment and restoring normal urine flow—without any external cuts.

What Is a Urethral Stricture?

A urethral stricture occurs when the urethra (urine passage) becomes narrowed due to:

• Infection

• Previous surgeries

• Trauma or injury

• Catheter use

• Inflammation

• Unknown causes (idiopathic)

This narrowing causes difficulty in passing urine and may lead to recurrent infections, urinary retention, or bladder damage if untreated.

What Is VIU / OIU?

VIU / OIU is an endoscopic incision technique used to cut and open the narrowed urethral segment.
A small scope with a camera (urethroscope) is inserted through the natural urinary passage.
Using a fine cold knife or laser, the scar tissue is incised to widen the urethra.

Who Needs VIU / OIU?

This procedure is recommended for:

• Short strictures (usually <1–1.5 cm)

• First-time urethral strictures

• Strictures causing weak urine flow

• Patients with urinary retention

• Those not responding to dilation

• Strictures located in the bulbar urethra (most common)

Symptoms of Urethral Stricture

• Weak or thin urine stream

• Straining to urinate

• Burning during urination

• Frequent UTIs

• Incomplete bladder emptying

• Urinary dribbling

• Acute urinary retention (in severe cases)

How VIU / OIU Is Performed

1. A thin endoscope is passed through the urethra.

2. The narrowed area is located under direct vision.

3. A precise cut is made at the stricture using a cold knife or laser.

4. Urine passage is widened immediately.

5. A catheter is placed for a few days to support healing.

The entire procedure is typically completed in 10–20 minutes.

No external incisions. Minimal pain. Quick recovery.

Benefits of VIU / OIU

• Minimally invasive

• No external scars

• Day-care or short-stay procedure

• Immediate improvement in urine flow

• Fast recovery

• Ideal for selected short strictures

• Option for repeated procedures in suitable cases

Recovery After VIU / OIU

Most patients:

• Are discharged the same day or next morning

• Have a catheter for 3–7 days

• Resume normal routine in 2–3 days

• Experience a significant improvement in urine flow

• Require follow-up to check for recurrence

Dr. Ajinkya provides detailed guidance for lifestyle and bladder care after surgery.

Will the Stricture Come Back?

Stricture recurrence depends on:

• Length of the stricture

• Cause and location

• Previous surgeries

• Tissue healing response

Short strictures respond best to VIU/OIU, while long or recurrent strictures may require urethroplasty for a permanent cure.

Why Choose Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar?

• Expertise in managing urethral strictures

• Advanced endoscopic techniques for safe, effective treatment

• Patient-focused approach

• Modern equipment and precision-based care

• Experience with both simple and complex urethral pathologies

Book a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of a urethral stricture, early evaluation can prevent complications and provide immediate relief.
Consult Dr. Ajinkya Kasekar for expert diagnosis and advanced endoscopic treatment.