URETHRAL CARUNCLE REMOVAL

General Information

DEFINITION-Removal of a urethral caruncle, a small benign tumor that develops at the opening of the female urethra.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED-Urethra; vagina (route for surgery).

REASONS FOR SURGERY-Treatment of excessive bleeding or discomfort.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Adults over 60.
• Obesity; smoking.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent or chronic illness.
• Alcoholism.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES-Urologist or obstetrician- gynecologist.

WHERE PERFORMED-Hospital, outpatient surgical facility or doctor's office.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Pap smear (See Glossary); pelvic examination; blood and urine studies.
• After surgery: Pelvic examination.

ANESTHESIA-Local anesthesia by injection and topical application.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• The vagina is held open with a speculum. The caruncle is located, cleansed and anesthetized with local anesthesia.
• The caruncle is then removed with electrocauterization or a scalpel.
• Bleeding is controlled with pressure or electrocauterization.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY-Usually none.

PROBABLE OUTCOME-Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

† Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress in the genital area to relieve surgical--wound pain.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 3 days after returning home. > Sexual relations may be resumed when your doctor determines that healing is complete.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

• Urination is painful or difficult.
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.