Endoscopic Management Including Drug-Coated Balloon – Optilume

Ty Higuchi, MD, PhD, explores the endoscopic management of urethral strictures, focusing on the drug-coated balloon technology. In this 10-minute presentation, Dr. Higuchi shares that urethral strictures, common in urology practices, are traditionally treated with dilations and direct vision internal urethrotomies (DVIU). Data shows that DVIU has a success rate of about 50% on the first attempt, with diminishing returns on repeated procedures. Adjunctive treatments like steroids or self-dilation have been explored but show limited efficacy in preventing stricture recurrence.

Higuchi highlights a newer approach with the FDA-approved drug-coated balloon (Optilume). He shares studies such as the Robust I and II trials, which have demonstrated promising results. Dr. Higuchi recommends the drug-coated balloon for ease of use and minimally invasive nature.

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