Urethral duplication

Abstract

Duplication of the urethra is a rare congenital anomaly. While it is true that in some instances reconstructive surgery is not necessary, those cases that require repair pose a significant challenge to the urologist. Our experience with 3 cases illustrates the potential complexity of this deformity. Two patients presented with significant renal compromise secondary to bladder outlet obstruction and required reconstruction of the entire anterior urethra. The third patient presented with a urethral fistula after circumcision and repair was done by ventral-to-dorsal urethrourethrostomy. A workable classification of duplicated and accessory urethra is outlined. This classification is based on the source of the secondary channel, its point of emptying (that is internal, external or blind) and the relationship of the secondary channel to the normal urethra (that is dorsal or ventral).