Optilume (Drug-Coated Balloon)

Optilume is a balloon catheter system that carries a medication on its surface. The balloon is the part that physically opens up the narrowed section of the urethra, while the coating, a medicine called paclitaxel that limits scar formation, is the part that helps keep it open over time. Recurrent strictures are a common frustration because scar tissue often re-forms after the urethra is simply stretched or cut; Optilume is designed specifically to interrupt that cycle. The whole treatment is delivered through the natural urinary passage, so there is no external cut and no open surgery.

A thin catheter is gently passed along the urethra to the narrowed area, usually under local anaesthesia or light sedation. The balloon is positioned across the stricture and inflated, which widens the narrowed segment and presses the medicine coating against the urethral wall. As the balloon expands the tissue, the medication is transferred into the wall, where it works over the following weeks to reduce the formation of new scar tissue. The balloon is then deflated and removed. The procedure is typically completed in a single, short outpatient visit, and a catheter may be left in place briefly afterwards to support healing.

Optilume is used mainly for men with recurrent urethral stricture, particularly those whose narrowing has returned after previous treatments such as dilation or internal cutting. It can be an appealing option for people who want to avoid more extensive reconstructive surgery, or who prefer a quick, minimally invasive treatment with a short recovery. It is best suited to certain stricture lengths and locations, so a urologist evaluates the stricture and the patient's history to decide whether Optilume or another approach is the most appropriate choice.

The main benefits are a minimally invasive, no-incision treatment, a quick outpatient procedure and the dual action of widening the stricture while helping prevent it from returning. Recovery is generally fast, and most men resume normal activities soon afterwards. Mild burning when passing urine, urgency or a small amount of blood in the urine can occur for a short time and usually settle. A temporary catheter may be used for a brief period. The care team explains aftercare and arranges follow-up to check that urine flow has improved and remains durable.