Urethral duplication as cause of incontinence in a 5-years-old female: Surgical approach

Abstract

Duplication of the urethra is a rare congenital anomaly in females which, if left unidentified, might cause refractory urinary incontinence. This video demonstrates its identification and treatment. A 5-year-old female was referred for primary refractory diurnal incontinence without any dry moment since birth. Initial clinical examination showed permanent urine leakage from an opening cranial to the clitoris. Ultrasound did not show any bladder or kidney abnormalities. A diagnostic cystoscopy under anesthesia revealed an accessory meatus located cranially to the orthotopic meatus and to the clitoris. Lying in dorsal decubitus under general anesthesia, catheters were inserted in respectively the orthotopic and accessory meatus. The accessory meatus and urethra were dissected away into the bladder dome from a circumferential skin incision. Defects were closed and bladder drainage per urethram was left in situ for 10 days. P ostoperative recovery was uncomplicated. Complete resolution of the incontinence was immediately achieved at catheter removal. Daytime and night-time continence are observed with 3 years follow-up. Urethral duplication is a rare finding in females but should be excluded during the workup of primary incontinence. In girls with isolated urethral duplication, resection of the accessory urethra is the best surgical option.