Effect of a Customized Panchakarma (bio-purificatory) Treatment Plan in a Case of Urethral Stricture with Cystitis: A Case Report.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Cystitis, inflammation of the bladder due to urinary tract infection, and Urethral stricture, narrowing of the urethra that obstructs the urine flow are conditions often aligned with the Ayurvedic concept of Mutraghata (urinary obstruction). This case report aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an Ayurvedic treatment protocol, including Udwartana (powder massage), Virechana (purgation), and Uttara Basti (enema) (urethral douche) on the parameters of Uroflowmetry. Methodology: A patient diagnosed with cystitis and urethral stricture underwent a series of Panchakarma (bio-purificatory) procedures. The protocol included Udwartana (powder massage), Avagaha Swedana (sitz bath), Virechana (purgation), Niruha Basti (enema) (decoction enema), Uttara Basti (enema) (urethral douche) using medicated decoctions and oils on alternate days. Post-discharge, the patient continued oral Ayurvedic medications at home. Uroflowmetry was employed to assess treatment effectiveness before and after the intervention. Results: Marked improvements were observed in Uroflowmetry parameters, including maximum flow rate, average flow rate, and voiding time along with a reduction in symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during micturition, reduced flow, and the patient reported an enhanced quality of life, with better performances in daily activities. These improvements were sustained during the 60- day follow-up period. Conclusion: A combination of modified Uttara Basti (transurethral douche) and other panchakarma procedures, plus oral Ayurvedic medications was effective in relieving the symptoms of urethral stricture and improving Uroflowmetry parameters with sustained results during the 60-day follow-up period.