Urology is a branch of medicine that focuses on diseases of the urinary-tract system and reproductive organs. These organs include the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra. Urology doctors also treat conditions affecting both the male and female reproductive organs.
Reconstructive urology
Reconstructive urology is one of the most varied and difficult subspecialties of urology. The subspecialty has various branches, including uro-oncology, andrology, pediatrics, robotics, and plastic surgery. It is often referred to as “a branch of urology that deals with reconstructive surgery.”
Reconstructive urology involves the surgical repair of the urological system. It can restore normal urine flow after injury, obstruction, or infection. Some of the conditions that can be repaired with this type of surgery are urinary tract infection, urethral reconstruction, or pelvic reconstruction.
Digital rectal exams
A digital rectal examination, or DRE, is a noninvasive procedure performed by a physician during a routine office visit. It can detect prostate problems, including cancer. However, Dr Paul Manohar the procedure is not without risks. In order to perform a DRE, a provider will need to insert a gloved finger into the rectum.
The procedure can cause a little discomfort, but the patient can go back to normal activity afterward. After the procedure, your doctor will discuss the results with you and tell you whether or not further testing is necessary. If there are any suspicious areas, the doctor will recommend further tests.
Robotic surgery
Robotic surgery in urology has become a reality in some medical disciplines, including surgery of the prostate and kidney. Robots mirror movements of the surgeon in the operating room and provide sensory feedback. The technology was developed by Computer Motion, Inc., a pioneer in robotic surgery. In 2004, the company merged with Intuitive Surgical, Inc., and since then, the da Vinci robot has been a leading robotic surgical system.
In recent years, robotic surgery has transformed the field of urology. These machines allow surgeons to perform less invasive and efficient procedures. Despite the technological advancements, many patients remain hesitant to undergo robotic surgery. The urologist Michael A. Palese weighs in on the stigmas that surround the procedure.
Bladder cancer
Urology and bladder cancer can be treated in several ways. The removal of a tumor can be an outpatient procedure, which means the patient can be discharged from the hospital the same day. Afterward, the tumor is examined by a pathologist to determine the type and grade of the cancer. These tests help determine the treatment plan.
Bladder cancer is the second most common form of cancer in the United States, following prostate cancer. Every year, there are about 67,200 new cases of this cancer. More than half of the cases are diagnosed in men. The five-year survival rate is 90 percent, assuming the cancer is detected early.