Abstract
ABSTRACT: Trauma to the male urethra must be efficiently diagnosed in the emergency department setting. Many patients will need to undergo immediate surgical reconstruction. Traumatic urethral injuries are rarely life-threatening; however, they can lead to sexual dysfunction and psychological stress for the patient. For example, patients who develop urethral stricture disease from poorly managed traumatic events are likely to have significant voiding problems and recurring need for further interventions. Additionally, associated injuries to the pelvis and vascular structures also frequently occur and must be identified rapidly and treated promptly to prevent long-term complications. Specifically, a delay in diagnosing a traumatic urethral injury may significantly lead to serious long-term sequelae. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to increase the provider's awareness and understanding of urethral injuries. Using a case study approach, the assessment and management of these injuries will be discussed. In this article, the authors provide an understanding of the pathophysiology of urethra trauma and the diagnostic tests to order so as to properly examine the patient with scrotal and/or urethral injury.