Silicon Valley Urologist – Dr. Jonathan C Hu

Innovative Relief, Designed for You: Optilume® – Breathe New Life into Urinary Health

Restoring Flow, Renewing Comfort: Advanced Care for Better Living

“Welcome to our Optilume® resource! If you’re struggling with a urethral stricture, finding the right treatment can feel overwhelming. Optilume® is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive option designed to restore urinary flow and improve your quality of life. We’re here to guide you through every step and help you regain comfort and confidence.”

-Jonathan Hu. MD

SVU

What is Optilume®?

Optilume® is an innovative, minimally invasive treatment for urethral stricture, a condition that causes narrowing of the urethra and leads to difficulty urinating. This groundbreaking approach combines balloon dilation with a drug-coated delivery system to reduce the risk of scar tissue reformation, providing long-term symptom relief without the need for repeated procedures.

 

Who is a Candidate for Optilume®?

You may benefit from Optilume® if you experience:
✔️ Slow or weak urinary stream
✔️ Straining to urinate
✔️ Incomplete bladder emptying
✔️ Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
✔️ Recurrent urethral strictures despite previous treatments

optilume

The Procedure

  • Precise Dilation – A specialized balloon is inserted into the urethra and gently expanded to widen the stricture.
  • Drug-Coated Therapy – The balloon is coated with paclitaxel, a medication that reduces scarring and helps maintain the urethral opening over time.
  • Minimally Invasive, Fast Recovery – The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, with minimal discomfort and a quick return to daily activities.
  • During the Procedure: Performed under local or light sedation, the procedure typically takes under 30 minutes.
  • After Treatment: Most patients experience immediate symptom relief and return to normal activities within a few days.
  • Long-Term Benefits: Optilume® is designed to provide lasting improvements without the need for frequent retreatments.

Risks

  • Urinary Discomfort: Temporary burning or mild pain during urination.
  • Hematuria (Blood in Urine): Minor bleeding may occur but usually resolves on its own.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A small risk of infection, which can be treated with antibiotics.
  • Urethral Irritation: Some patients may experience mild swelling or irritation in the urethra.
  • Stricture Recurrence: While Optilume® is designed to reduce recurrence, some strictures may return over time.

Outpatient

Home same day

Non-Invasive

100% No surgery or radiation

Personalized

Targeted Treatment

F.A.Q.

The majority of men can return to their usual activities within 1 to 2 days after the procedure, including regular short walks. More vigorous physical activities can be resumed after the removal of the catheter. Notably, there is no need for incision care or stitches removal, streamlining the recovery process.

I conduct a non-opioid procedure. Patients typically experience catheter discomfort, which is effectively managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Ibuprofen.

Insurance coverage can differ between patients, with some offering coverage while others may not. For personalized assistance and to navigate the unique policies of each insurance provider, I recommend contacting our billing department. In cases where insurance coverage is not available, we offer fair cash payment options.